On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja became the epicenter of a heated protest led by the #EndBadGovernance movement, demanding the immediate release of activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore. As tensions flared between demonstrators and law enforcement, the atmosphere became charged with frustration over what many described as government oppression.
The protesters, gathered in large numbers outside the court, accused security forces of intimidation. With a heavy police presence, activists voiced their discontent, asserting that the authorities were misplacing their priorities. One protester lamented, “Police officers are here to intimidate peaceful demonstrators. Meanwhile, Abuja is burning. This shows the seriousness of this government and the illegal Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. If he were serious, he would send his men to tackle crime, not to harass us.”
Sowore, who has faced multiple allegations—including resisting public officers and cyberstalking—was not present in court, leading demonstrators to demand his immediate appearance. “What we are asking is that Sowore should be brought before a court now. Stop detaining him and breaching his right to liberty if no charges have been filed against him. Free Sowore now!” another protester shouted.
Beyond Sowore’s individual case, the demonstration sought to highlight broader issues regarding the judicial system’s treatment of government critics. Protesters called for an end to the “weaponization of the judiciary” against dissenters, urging the government to refocus its efforts on serious societal issues rather than targeting vocal opponents.
Despite the intimidating police presence, the protesters remained resolute in their demands. They vowed to continue their advocacy until Sowore was either brought to court or released. The atmosphere was thick with determination as chants of “Free Sowore!” echoed through the streets.
Sowore had previously claimed his legal troubles were politically motivated, linking them to his vocal criticism of the current administration. Although he was reportedly granted bail after engaging with police intelligence, he insisted he would not accept any conditions that compromised his integrity.
As the protest continued, Sowore’s lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, confirmed that the police planned to arraign Sowore before Justice Liman later that day. He stated, “The police have procured charges to arraign Omoyele Sowore before the court.”
The #EndBadGovernance movement has gained momentum in recent months, galvanizing citizens frustrated with the government’s handling of various issues. As the protest unfolded, it became clear that this was not just about one man’s freedom, but a larger struggle for justice and accountability in Nigeria.
With the backdrop of heavy police presence and a gathering storm of public dissent, the outcome of Sowore’s case remains to be seen, but the determination of the protesters signals a critical moment in Nigeria’s ongoing fight for democracy and governance reform.