The recent disruption of Democracy Day protests and the targeted harassment of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore have sparked widespread concern over the shrinking civic space in Nigeria. Adding his voice to the growing condemnation, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate and Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal, warned that such actions pose a significant threat to the nation’s democratic foundation.
Peaceful demonstrators were allegedly disrupted during what was meant to be a celebration of Nigeria’s return to civil rule. Olawepo-Hashim pointed out the deep irony of the situation, noting that June 12 should serve as a stark reminder to protect justice, freedom of expression, and the rule of law, rather than a day to suppress them. He emphasized that a healthy democracy relies entirely on the ability of citizens to organize, speak out, and demand accountability from leadership without fear of retribution.
The political leader also raised alarms over the continuous state-backed pressure on Sowore, particularly regarding the prolonged seizure of his international passport. He cautioned that treating political dissent as a criminal offense risks dragging the country back into the dark eras of authoritarianism. For Nigeria to progress, he argued, the authorities and security agencies must learn to balance maintaining public order with absolute respect for the constitutional rights of the people.
The incident highlights why the newly formed Movement for Democratic Renewal, which Olawepo-Hashim co-chairs alongside Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, was established. The coalition was created specifically to safeguard civic freedoms against institutional erosion. Moving forward, the group intends to mobilize labor unions, civil society organizations, and everyday citizens to build a united front capable of defending democratic institutions and ensuring that leadership remains accountable to the people.
