The African Action Congress (AAC) in Lagos State has launched a scathing attack on the Federal Government following the revocation of the bail granted to its presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, and the issuance of a bench warrant for his arrest by a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Describing the development as a troubling setback for democracy, the opposition party accused the authorities of using state institutions to intimidate political opponents rather than addressing the country’s growing security and economic challenges.
In a statement issued by its Lagos State Chairman, Samson Olanrewaju, the party expressed concern over what it called an increasing pattern of actions aimed at suppressing dissenting voices in the country.
According to the AAC, the legal actions taken against Sowore create the impression that government institutions are being deployed against outspoken critics of the administration, a situation it said could weaken public confidence in democratic governance and the independence of the judiciary.
The party argued that Sowore has remained one of the most vocal critics of corruption, insecurity, economic hardship and governance failures in Nigeria, insisting that efforts should be directed toward solving national problems rather than pursuing opposition figures.
AAC maintained that democratic societies thrive when citizens and political actors are free to express opposing views without fear of harassment, intimidation or persecution.
The party warned that any attempt to silence opposition voices could undermine the principles of justice, accountability and political freedom upon which democratic governance is built.
Olanrewaju further called on judicial authorities and relevant government institutions to uphold the rule of law and ensure that legal processes are not perceived as instruments for settling political scores.
The opposition party also appealed to civil society organisations, labour groups, student bodies and democracy advocates to remain vigilant in defending constitutional freedoms and citizens’ rights.
According to the AAC, Nigeria is at a critical stage where democratic institutions must be protected from actions capable of eroding public trust and weakening democratic participation.
Reaffirming its support for Sowore, the party declared that it would continue to stand with individuals and groups advocating accountability, transparency, social justice and good governance.
The AAC insisted that no level of intimidation or political pressure would discourage Nigerians from demanding a country founded on fairness, equality, human dignity and democratic principles.
The controversy surrounding the court’s decision has continued to generate reactions from political observers and rights advocates, with many closely monitoring developments in the case and their implications for democratic engagement in Nigeria.