…Calls for Peaceful Protests Against Government Policies
Human rights activist and leader of the #RevolutionNow movement, Omoyele Sowore, has declared that his group is set for a nationwide protest on October 1, emphasizing that the demonstrations will be peaceful throughout Nigeria.
In a phone interview with *LEADERSHIP*, Sowore, a former presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC), expressed that the protest is a response to the severe issues of hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship that Nigerians are facing under the current administration.
Among the key demands raised by Sowore is the “immediate and unconditional release of all individuals detained during previous protests” and a call for the freedom of all political prisoners in Nigeria ahead of the mass protest tagged #FearlessInOctober.
He also urged the Bola Tinubu-led administration to take immediate action to revitalize the economy, generate jobs, enhance security, and implement constitutional reforms.
Sowore underscored that the widespread suffering of the Nigerian populace stems from what he described as “insensitive government policies.”
He reiterated the need for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the implementation of a living wage for Nigerian workers, and the reversal of the subsidy removal policy, which he argued adversely impacts the masses.
In addition, Sowore highlighted the urgent need for measures to combat banditry and terrorism, alongside job creation initiatives targeting the millions of unemployed youth.
He also called for significant investments in the power sector and infrastructure to stimulate economic growth, reforms in the education sector, and a restructuring of governance.
Reflecting on the motivations for the protest, Sowore noted that similar demonstrations held in August aimed to bring attention to the economic struggles, insecurity, and systemic injustices affecting Nigerians.
He lamented the lack of progress since those protests, stating, “Conditions have deteriorated. Inflation is rising, insecurity is worsening, and many communities are suffering devastating floods due to governmental negligence.”
Sowore emphasized the importance of protests as a means for citizens to express their grievances, declaring, “Remaining silent could imply acceptance. We must speak out against the suffering of our people; it’s our patriotic duty.”
His broader demands include the unconditional release of all individuals involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests, along with the unfreezing of their assets and appropriate compensation for their distress.
He is advocating for accountability for law enforcement officials involved in the repression of protests, the abolition of the 1999 Constitution, and the establishment of a new constitution crafted by the people through a Sovereign National Conference, followed by a national referendum. Sowore is also calling for constitutional reforms that address Nigeria’s diverse regional needs and comprehensive strategies to combat hunger and poverty.
Moreover, he urged the demilitarization of the South-East geopolitical zone and the unconditional release of political detainees.
Sowore called for investigations into corruption among past and present leaders, with recovered funds directed toward education and infrastructure development.
He also proposed the creation of a Special Energy Fund to promote ethical investment in the power sector and enhance public safety.
In conclusion, Sowore advocated for substantial judicial reforms, aggressive public investment, and a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of Nigeria’s youth.
