Protesting Is Lawful, Revolution Is Treasonable Felony…. Wrong Use Of Word, Wrong Use Of Power

No man is more hated than the man who speaks the truth (Plato). You might not like his face or the way he does his things, but trust me; arresting Omoyele Sowore is an abuse of his fundamental human rights.  

In 2019 Election, no doubt I labored and worked for President Muhammadu Buhari not because he is a perfect man but because I know he has the political sagacity to position Nigeria in her right pride of place. He is a no nonsense  politician with integrity, and his fight against corruption even if many see it as one sided, has helped to make public servants more careful and diligent with their job.  

Despite that Sowore Omoyele is a comrade, I did not support him. Not because he doesn’t have the capacity to win, but because he doesn’t have the capacity to govern a multi cultural and religious country like ours. 

Without any guilty conscience, many felt I ought to support him due to his massive support of solidarity towards me when I was arrested last year over some issues. But, I told them yes, Sowore used his Sahara Reporters newspaper to call for my release. But this isn’t about me or him; it is about the growth of Nigeria. 

Revolution at this point is extremely harsh hence am I against it. But arresting the messenger is another costly mistake by the FG. The federal government must not play into the trap as this arrest is capable of opening the said “Doors of Revolution”

A revolution starts with a protest, but true revolution begins from arresting the leader of the protesting group.

As a government and people, we need not use fire to quash fire. The APC-led federal government shouldn’t allow the opposition always predict her actions.  It is time to change the narrative. 

Take it from me; I Comrade Efemena Umukoro condemns in totality the illegal arrest of Comrade Sowore Yele. It is barbaric, unnecessary, unconstitutional and extremely harsh. I join other right activists around the globe to call for his unconditional releases as I equally plead with all CSO in the country to remain calm as protesting at this time when our nation is faced with serious insecurity challenges  might lead to further death, loss of properties, uncontrolled crisis and unnecessary tension.  

The Federal Government of Nigeria no doubt is making progress. They need our patience as citizens. We must pray for them as well. In the area of security, the Federal Government must do something very fast as even those who are supporting them against Sowore are doing so because of political affiliation and fear of losing their daily bread… privately they complain too.

I therefore call for the unconditional release of Sowore Omoyele and the call off of the said nationwide protest by the said group. 

Pray for Nigeria 

Hope for Nigeria 

#FreeSoworeomoyelenow

Written by Comrade Efemena Umukoro, Delta State Chairman, Social Patriotic Youths Initiative and also National Secretary UPU Youthwing Worldwide