Two groups, Afenifere Youth Coalition and Concerned Citizens for Justice and Rule of Law, have strongly condemned activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore over his recent criticisms of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
In separate statements issued on Friday, both groups accused Sowore of engaging in a pattern of defamation, cyberbullying, and political blackmail, alleging that his activism is driven by personal and financial interests rather than genuine concern for justice.
The Afenifere Youth Coalition stated that Sowore has built a career out of harassing and undermining public officials, noting that his latest attack on the IGP is part of a larger agenda to destabilize the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Sowore thrives on controversy, misleading activism, and political blackmail. His entire career revolves around inciting protests, spreading falsehoods, and manipulating public sentiment for personal gain,” the statement read.
The group referenced a recent viral video, alleging that Sowore resisted and obstructed law enforcement officers, engaged in cyberstalking, and disobeyed lawful orders. It argued that the 16-count cybercrime charge filed against him is proof of his continued abuse of online platforms to spread misinformation.
On its part, the Concerned Citizens for Justice and Rule of Law described Sowore as an “agent of chaos and misinformation” who is being used by unnamed paymasters to discredit the achievements of the IGP, particularly in crime reduction.
“Nigeria is not a playground for anarchists, and the rule of law will always prevail over the antics of mischief-makers like Sowore,” the group declared, adding that his criticisms of the IGP are part of a wider attempt to weaken Nigeria’s security institutions.
Both groups commended IGP Egbetokun for his professionalism and adherence to due process in handling Sowore’s alleged defamation, rather than resorting to intimidation. They urged Nigerians not to fall for what they termed Sowore’s “manufactured controversies” and instead support the ongoing security reforms under the IGP’s leadership.
They further criticized Sahara Reporters, the online platform owned by Sowore, describing it as a “blackmail factory” that peddles sensational and misleading reports to discredit public officials.
“Sowore’s media house is notorious for publishing politically motivated falsehoods. It operates not as a credible news platform but as a tool for media blackmail,” the Afenifere Youth Coalition stated.
The groups therefore called on the judiciary to ensure that Sowore’s trial serves as a precedent against online defamation, cyberbullying, and targeted harassment of public officials.
