society
Youth Rising: National Youth Alliance Condemns Police Brutality, Demands Justice for Sowore
Youth Rising: National Youth Alliance Condemns Police Brutality, Demands Justice for Sowore.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
On August 7, 2025, Nigeria witnessed yet another shameful chapter in its long, troubling history of state-sponsored violence against dissenters. Comrade Omoyele Sowore, a globally recognized human rights activist, journalist and former presidential candidate, was brutalized by members of the Nigerian Police Force. HIS CRIME? Daring to speak truth to power. The National Youth Alliance has condemned this act of impunity in the STRONGEST POSSIBLE TERMS, calling it what it truly is: a naked act of political violence meant to intimidate and silence a defiant voice in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
According to verified reports, Sowore was invited to the Inspector General of Police’s Monitoring Unit only to be ARRESTED, BEATEN and left with a BROKEN ARM. In a blatant violation of his fundamental rights, he was not charged immediately and reports indicate that he was denied adequate medical care. Photographs of Sowore (his arm in a sling, his face contorted in pain) circulated across social media, sparking outrage among Nigerians and the international community.
The National Youth Alliance Speaks. The National Youth Alliance, a coalition of progressive youth organizations across Nigeria, immediately condemned the attack, describing it as a “STATE-SPONSORED ACT OF TERROR”. In their statement, they demanded that Sowore be released or formally charged within 48 hours, failing which the Nigerian Police should be prepared for national and international legal consequences.
The Alliance’s spokesperson, Deborah Eze, declared: “This is no longer about Sowore alone. This is about every Nigerian youth who believes in DEMOCRACY, JUSTICE and HUMAN RIGHTS. If the state can brutalize Sowore so publicly, imagine what happens in the shadows to those who have no platform.” Their demands were clear: IMMEDIATE RELEASE or LAWFUL ARRAIGNMENT of Omoyele Sowore.
An independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and physical assault.
Prosecution of officers involved in his maltreatment.
Compensation for his injuries and a public apology.
Sowore: A Symbol of Resistance. Omoyele Sowore is no stranger to state repression. He has faced MULTIPLE ARRESTS, TRAVEL BANS and DETENTIONS, often without CHARGES. His platform, Sahara Reporters, has exposed corruption at the highest levels of government, earning him enemies among Nigeria’s ruling elite. During the #RevolutionNow protests, he was arrested and held for months despite multiple court orders for his release. Amnesty International designated him a Prisoner of Conscience in 2019. And yet, Sowore has remained resolute. In his own words: “You may detain the body, but never the spirit. The fight for a better Nigeria continues.”
Global Condemnation. Human rights organizations around the world have responded with outrage. Amnesty International, in a strongly worded statement, described Sowore’s arrest and assault as a violation of international human rights norms to which Nigeria is a signatory. “The Nigerian government must end its persecution of critics and ensure justice is served.”
Human Rights Watch echoed this sentiment, warning that Nigeria is fast becoming a pariah state where dissent is treated as treason. The UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, noted: “A democracy cannot flourish when journalists and activists are targeted for doing their jobs. Sowore’s case is emblematic of the shrinking civic space in Nigeria.”
Domestic Fury. Within Nigeria, condemnation has come from across the political and social spectrum. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar blasted the government, stating: “This is not law enforcement. This is a vendetta. Sowore’s persecution sends a dangerous message: that the state is above the law.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), under Comrade Joe Ajaero, demanded Sowore’s immediate release and called for nationwide protests if the government failed to comply. “We are not in a police state,” Ajaero asserted. “We cannot and will not allow this dictatorship to continue unchecked.”
Civil society groups including Enough Is Enough Nigeria (EiE), SERAP, and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) have also mobilized protests and legal petitions, insisting that justice must prevail.
The Legal Perspective. Legal scholars and constitutional experts have weighed in, noting that the Nigerian Constitution (specifically Sections 34, 35, and 39) guarantees the rights to dignity, liberty and expression. Renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), who has previously represented Sowore, argued: “This government continues to show contempt for the rule of law. This brutality is unconstitutional and criminal.”
International legal observers have also cited Nigeria’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; all of which Nigeria has ratified.
The Danger of Silence. When the government assaults a public figure like Sowore, it sends a chilling message to every citizen. It tells Nigerians that activism is a crime, that questioning power invites punishment and that justice is reserved for the few. Silence, in this case, becomes complicity. This is not just a legal issue; it is a moral and existential one. The future of Nigeria’s democracy hinges on the protection of dissent. A society where police brutality is normalized cannot claim to be democratic.
The Youth Will Not Be Silenced. This generation of Nigerian youth, unlike previous ones, refuses to cower in the face of intimidation.
The #EndSARS movement proved that they are organized, informed and ready to challenge injustice. The brutalization of Sowore has only reignited their passion.
Student unions, youth leaders and diaspora networks have begun organizing mass rallies across Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and even internationally in London, Johannesburg and New York. Their message is simple: JUSTICE FOR SOWORE IS JUSTICE FOR ALL.
The Path Forward.
To restore faith in the system, the Nigerian government must:
1. Immediately suspend all officers involved pending investigation.
2. Allow Sowore full access to medical care and legal representation.
3. Engage in open dialogue with civil society to reform the security agencies.
4. Reaffirm its commitment to international human rights obligations.
Anything short of these steps is a betrayal of Nigeria’s democratic promise.
The Harsh Reality: The Battle for Nigeria’s Soul. This is more than an isolated incident. It is a test of Nigeria’s conscience. Will we allow a POLICE FORCE to operate as JUDGE, JURY and EXECUTIONER? Will we allow power to silence truth? Or will we rise; as the National Youth Alliance has done to say: ENOUGH.
Let Sowore’s bloodied arm not be in vain. Let it be the last time a Nigerian is punished for demanding justice. Let it mark the beginning of a new chapter; where truth is DEFENDED, not SUPPRESSED and where DEMOCRACY is not just a word, but a lived REALITY.
Justice for Sowore. Justice for Nigeria.
~ By George Omagbemi Sylvester
society
GEN CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE EXTENDS WARM BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS TO PRESIDENT TINUBU ON 74TH BIRTHDAY
GEN CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE EXTENDS WARM BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS TO PRESIDENT TINUBU ON 74TH BIRTHDAY
The Gen Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative has extended heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the occasion of his 74th birthday.
In a statement released to the press, the Initiative conveyed warm wishes for the President’s personal well-being and for his continued leadership of the nation. The statement, signed by the Convener, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, expressed hope that the coming year would bring the President “renewed strength and more wisdom in guiding the nation.”
The statement further noted that the Grand Patron of the Initiative, His Excellency Gen Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, joined in celebrating the milestone. It added, “Wishing Your Excellency continued good health, vitality, and determination as you lead the country towards greater unity and progress.”
The message underscores support for President Tinubu’s administration and its national objectives, marking the birthday as an occasion to reaffirm commitment to the nation’s unity and advancement under his stewardship.
society
Dominion City to Host Global Camp Meeting, “2 Nights of Glory” 2026 in Lagos, Enugu …Calls for Moral Renewal
*Dominion City to Host Global Camp Meeting, “2 Nights of Glory” 2026 in Lagos, Enugu
…Calls for Moral Renewal
Lagos – Dominion City has announced plans to host its annual Global Camp Meeting alongside a special “2 Nights of Glory” gathering in April 2026, with events scheduled to be held simultaneously in Lagos and Enugu.
The week-long programme is expected to draw tens of thousands of participants onsite and millions of virtual attendees from across the globe.
The Global Camp Meeting will run from Wednesday, April 1 to Monday, April 6, featuring daily sessions at 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The “2 Nights of Glory” is slated for Friday, April 3 and Saturday, April 4 at the Golden Heart Place, Km 22 Lekki-Epe Expressway, beside Lagos Business School, Ajah, Lagos.
Organised by Dominion City, a global church focused on raising transformational leaders, the conference will centre on revival, spiritual renewal, and practical teachings. This year’s theme, “Redigging the Wells of Our Fathers,” underscores a call to return to foundational values and principles.
Speaking ahead of the event, Nobbert Onaga, President, Golden Heart Foundation and Senior Pastor, DC Lagos & Europe, emphasised the need for moral reawakening as a pathway to national transformation. He described the Church as “the pillar and foundation of truth,” noting that the conference aims to confront moral decline and restore core values within society.
“We are going back to foundational truths that established the Church. These truths will help repair societal damage and reposition the Church as a source of hope and light,” Onaga said.
Also speaking, Shola Olapade, Senior Pastor of Dominion City Headquarters, highlighted the Church’s role in addressing ethical and cultural challenges, particularly among young people. He added that the programme would go beyond spiritual teachings to include sessions on artificial intelligence, innovation, business, media, arts, and career development.
“We are equipping people not just spiritually, but with relevant 21st-century skills to thrive in today’s world,” Olapade noted.
The conference will feature teachings and ministrations from a lineup of international ministers, including Dr. David Ogbueli, Dr. Charles Ndifon, Andres Bisonni, Pastor Randy Mitchell, Apostle Ikechukwu Peter Nnajiofor, Dr. Ferdinand Nweke, Apostle Ben Hanyani Ndobe, Evangelist Dan Scott, and Dr. Chiefo Ejiofobiri.
Music ministrations will also be led by notable gospel artists such as Grace Idowu, Rhema Onuoha, Once More Six, David Nkennor, Anthony Kani, and GUC.
Organisers disclosed that over 30,000 participants are expected to attend in person, with free transportation provided from designated locations across Lagos to ease access. In addition, free medical services will be offered daily, building on previous outreaches that benefited over 1,700 people.
To ensure safety and order, more than 200 traffic marshals will be deployed in collaboration with relevant authorities.
Beyond its spiritual impact, organisers project that the event will stimulate local economic activity across hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors.
The Global Camp Meeting remains a key platform for spiritual impartation, leadership development, and societal transformation, aligning with Dominion City’s mission to equip believers to influence their communities positively.
Participation is open to the public, with registration available online for both physical and virtual attendance. //END.//
*PHOTO CAPTIONS:*
L-R: Dr. Godwin Efobi, Head, Medical Team, Dominion City Headquarters (DCHQ); Pastor Shola Olapade, Senior Pastor, DCHQ; Pastor Nobbert Onaga, President, Golden Heart Foundation and Senior Pastor, DC Lagos & Europe; Pastor Chuks Anochie, Head of Security and Traffic Control, Dominion City Headquarters (DCHQ), Camp Meeting 2026; Pastor Josh Tim Vaduchi, Head of Event & Programmes, DCHQ, during the press briefing of the forthcoming Global Camp Meeting, held the weekend of 2026 at the Dominion City Headquarters (DCHQ), Lagos.
L-R: Pastor Chuks Anochie, Head of Security and Traffic Control, Dominion City Headquarters (DCHQ), Camp Meeting 2026; Pastor Shola Olapade, Senior Pastor, DCHQ; Pastor Nobbert Onaga, President, Golden Heart Foundation and Senior Pastor, DC Lagos & Europe; Dr. Godwin Efobi, Head, Medical Team, DCHQ; and Pastor Josh Tim Vaduchi, Head of Event & Programmes, during the press briefing of the forthcoming Global Camp Meeting, held over the weekend in 2026 at the Dominion City Headquarters (DCHQ), Lagos.
society
Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu, Felicitates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 74
Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu, Felicitates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 74
By Adeyemi Obadimu
The Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Saliu, Elebo II, has extended warm felicitations to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the occasion of his 74th birthday.
In a goodwill message issued from his palace, the revered monarch described President Tinubu as a visionary statesman, a courageous reformer, and an indefatigable democrat whose lifelong commitment to nation-building continues to shape Nigeria’s progress.
Oba Babatunde Saliu praised the President’s unwavering dedication to public service, noting that his leadership has ushered in a new phase of economic reform, infrastructural renewal, and institutional strengthening across the country.
According to the monarch, the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda has begun yielding tangible relief and renewed confidence among citizens, reflecting his determination to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth and prosperity.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated exceptional resilience, strategic foresight, and a deep love for Nigeria. His administration’s bold initiatives are laying the foundation for long-term national transformation. At 74, he remains steadfast in his resolve to build a stronger, more united, and economically vibrant nation,” the monarch stated.
Oba Babatunde further commended the President’s legacy of leadership, describing him as a bridge-builder, a mentor to many leaders, and a symbol of democratic stability. He acknowledged the President’s decades of sacrifice and contribution to the advancement of democracy in Nigeria.
On behalf of the Oworosoki Kingdom, the royal father prayed for divine wisdom, sound health, and renewed strength for the President to successfully complete the noble reforms and developmental strides he has embarked upon for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“As Your Excellency marks 74 remarkable years, we pray that Almighty God grants you long life, continued wisdom, and the fortitude to steer our great nation toward greater heights. May your days be filled with strength and grace as you continue to serve Nigeria with distinction,” Oba Babatunde Saliu added.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu clocks 74 as a leader whose enduring influence, bold reforms, and steadfast patriotism remain central to Nigeria’s ongoing journey of national renewal.
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