Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the decision of a Federal High Court in Abuja to revoke the bail granted to activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, describing the move as a threat to freedom of expression, due process and fair trial rights.
In a statement issued on Friday, the rights organisation argued that the court’s action stemmed from a case linked to Sowore’s criticism of President Bola Tinubu on social media and warned that such measures could undermine constitutional protections and international human rights obligations.
The court had earlier ordered Sowore’s arrest after he was reportedly absent from proceedings in an ongoing cyberbullying case. The charges relate to social media posts in which he allegedly referred to President Tinubu as a criminal. Following an application by the prosecution, the court also issued a bench warrant for his arrest.
Reacting to the development, Amnesty said criticism of public officials is protected under Nigeria’s Constitution and international treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
According to the organisation, revoking Sowore’s bail over the peaceful expression of his views raises serious concerns about the protection of civil liberties in the country.
Amnesty maintained that freedom of expression remains a fundamental pillar of democratic governance, stressing that journalists, activists, human rights defenders and political commentators must be able to scrutinise government actions without fear of arrest, detention or judicial harassment.
The group warned that the use of criminal charges, restrictive bail conditions or court processes to suppress dissent could discourage public participation in national discourse and weaken confidence in the justice system.
It further argued that such actions create a chilling effect on civic engagement, making citizens reluctant to speak out on matters of public interest.
Amnesty therefore called on authorities to reverse the bail revocation, discontinue what it described as unfounded charges against Sowore and ensure full respect for his constitutional rights.
The organisation also urged the government to uphold freedom of expression and refrain from using legal processes to intimidate critics, journalists and activists.
According to Amnesty, demonstrating commitment to the rule of law requires ensuring that no individual is deprived of liberty simply for peacefully exercising the right to express opinions or criticise those in authority.