A faith-based civil liberties organization, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has called for the release of detained activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, while urging activists across the country to embrace responsible conduct and decorum in public discourse.
The group made its position known in a statement issued on Thursday by its Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, following a court order remanding Sowore in Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations bordering on cybercrime.
According to MURIC, the detention of activists could negatively affect Nigeria’s democratic image and raise concerns about the country’s commitment to free speech and civil liberties.
“Locking up activists dents the image of Nigeria’s democracy and questions our respect for free speech,” the group said, while acknowledging that freedom of expression must be exercised within the limits of respect for the dignity of others.
MURIC stressed that although it does not support interference in judicial processes, it believes Sowore should be released, describing him as “a young Nigerian soaked in the bath waters of patriotism” who should be handled with care.
The organization further warned that prolonged detention and unnecessary delays in judicial proceedings could create perceptions of political persecution, particularly given Sowore’s role as a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).
“Long detention as well as judicial procrastination are the precursors of judicial rascality,” the statement noted.
However, the group also advised Sowore and other activists to avoid what it described as youthful exuberance, reckless pronouncements, and conduct aimed at courting public applause.
MURIC maintained that activism can remain effective without resorting to offensive language or disrespectful behaviour, urging public figures to recognize their influence on younger generations.
“As activists, we can be radical yet rational. We can be articulate yet responsible,” Akintola stated, adding that parliamentary language remains a hallmark of maturity and responsible leadership.
The organization also called on activists to uphold civility and decency in line with African cultural values, emphasizing that strong advocacy does not require vulgarity or disrespect.
MURIC concluded by reiterating its support for Sowore’s release while advocating responsible activism, respect for the rule of law, and timely judicial processes.
The group also promoted the hashtags #FreeSowore, #NoToLongDetentions, #NoToJudicialProcrastination, #NoToRecklessActivism, and #YesToResponsibleActivism as part of its campaign message.
