‘Drop bogus charges against Sowore,’ SERAP tells FG, DSS

Other demands are: ensure that Sowore is able to participate fully and freely in political and public life without harassment, intimidation, arbitrary arrest or reprisals; ensure that the Cybercrimes Act and other laws are not used to criminalise peaceful criticism, political speech or legitimate journalistic and human rights activities; review all criminal prosecutions and pending cases against journalists, activists and political opponents arising principally from their peaceful exercise of freedom of expression, with a view to withdrawing charges that are inconsistent with Nigeria’s constitutional and international human rights obligations, and ensure full respect for freedom of expression, freedom of association, political participation, media freedom, the rule of law and judicial independence as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.“The Tinubu government should not weaponise the Cybercrimes Act, criminal defamation provisions or other laws to suppress peaceful criticism, particularly as Nigeria approaches a general election.” SERAP urged President Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and the DSS to withdraw all charges against Omoyele Sowore; direct the DSS and other security and law enforcement agencies to stop using criminal and judicial processes to harass, intimidate or silence journalists, activists, political opponents and other Nigerians peacefully exercising their rights.