‘They murdered my brother, seized my passport’ — Sowore alleges persecution by government

Rights Activist Claims Longstanding Persecution by Nigerian Governments

Nigerian rights activist Omoyele Sowore has alleged that he and his family have faced systemic persecution under successive administrations, including the current government.

Sowore made these claims in a statement posted on his official social media page on July 13, 2026. He detailed a series of actions taken against him, including his expulsion from the University of Lagos, the seizure of his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, and repeated confiscations of his international passport.

According to Sowore, these actions were part of a broader effort to obstruct his travel and maintain prolonged separations from his family. “They targeted my education, resulting in my expulsion from the University of Lagos twice. They seized my NYSC certificate, hoping I would never secure employment after graduation,” he stated.

Sowore further alleged that authorities have utilized court orders and security forces to restrict his movement, resulting in extended periods away from his family. He claimed that the alleged persecution has included imprisonment, prosecution, and harassment, not only directed at him but also affecting his family and associates.

“They have imprisoned me, prosecuted me, assaulted me, shot at me, harassed those around me, murdered my brother, and tried to break my resolve,” he said.

Despite these experiences, Sowore stated that he remains undeterred. “But they have failed. Persecution cannot defeat conviction, and these acts will not delay their day of judgment,” he concluded.

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