Sowore accuses celebrities of using police against online critics
Former AAC Presidential Candidate Criticizes Use of Security Agencies Against Social Media Users
Former African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has voiced concerns about the increasing reliance on security agencies to address online comments and criticism.
In a statement shared on his official social media account, Sowore highlighted a troubling trend among some Nigerian celebrities who seem more inclined to involve law enforcement in disputes stemming from social media interactions.
He emphasized that the growing criminalization of online speech—including jokes and trolling—raises significant issues regarding freedom of expression and democratic rights in Nigeria. “This growing culture of criminalizing speech, jokes, criticism, trolling, and online banter is dangerous to democracy and fundamentally incompatible with freedom of expression,” Sowore said.
Sowore also took aim at the Nigeria Police Force and certain aspects of the judicial system. He accused influential individuals of leveraging law enforcement against ordinary citizens in online disagreements. “The police must stop acting as private enforcers for the rich, connected, and powerful,” he stated.
