Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the reported revocation of the bail granted to activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, describing the development as a threat to freedom of expression, fair trial rights, and personal liberty.
In a statement issued on Friday, the human rights organisation expressed concern over a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that reportedly ordered Sowore’s arrest after he was said to have failed to appear in court for proceedings related to cyberbullying charges.
According to Amnesty International, the court also issued a bench warrant for Sowore’s arrest following an oral application by the prosecution.
The organisation argued that the case stems from Sowore’s criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on social media, where he allegedly referred to the president as “a criminal” in posts made last year.
Amnesty International maintained that the expression of such views falls within the protections guaranteed by Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights instruments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
“The revocation of Sowore’s bail is linked to the peaceful expression of his views and criticism of public officials, which are clearly protected under Nigerian and international law,” the organisation stated.
It further argued that any restrictions on freedom of expression, liberty, or fair trial rights must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate, warning against the use of judicial processes to suppress dissent or silence government critics.
The rights group emphasised that freedom of expression remains a cornerstone of democratic societies and that journalists, activists, human rights defenders, and political commentators should be able to express opinions and scrutinise government actions without fear of arrest or retaliation.
Amnesty International also warned that the use of criminal proceedings, restrictive bail conditions, or other legal measures against individuals for expressing their views could create a chilling effect on public discourse and civic participation.
“The use of the criminal justice system to punish or deter legitimate expression discourages others from speaking out, weakens civic space, and undermines public confidence in the rule of law,” the statement said.
The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to immediately withdraw what it described as “bogus charges” against Sowore, insisting that the activist should not face prosecution solely for the peaceful exercise of his fundamental rights.
Amnesty International urged the government to uphold due process, comply with international fair trial standards, and respect citizens’ rights to criticise public officials and government policies without intimidation or harassment.
The group added that authorities must demonstrate their commitment to the rule of law and human rights by ensuring that no individual is deprived of liberty or subjected to judicial abuse for peacefully exercising the right to freedom of expression.
