A former presidential candidate and prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has spoken out against the ongoing passport seizure of activist and fellow former candidate, Comrade Omoyele Sowore. Hashim's bold statement highlights a critical issue: the threat to democracy and the abuse of power that this action represents.
In a recent meeting with PDP chairmen in Abuja, Hashim urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action and release Sowore's passport. He emphasized that a thriving democracy depends on the protection of dissenting voices, a fundamental principle that seems to be overlooked.
"Nigeria is a nation worth fighting for, and meaningful change is possible, no matter the challenges," Hashim declared.
During this meeting, Hashim shared his personal connection to Sowore, recalling their shared struggles for democracy dating back to 1989. Sowore, he noted, was one of his protégés during the era of military rule, a time when speaking out against the government carried significant risks.
Hashim's words carry weight, as he reflects on the sacrifices made to secure Nigeria's democratic space. He praises Sowore's courage and consistency, describing him as a symbol of principled resistance, a rallying point for young Nigerians seeking a new political order.
But here's where it gets controversial: Hashim condemns the sustained persecution of Sowore for speaking truth to power. The continued seizure of his passport, he argues, is a form of punishment without conviction, denying Sowore his basic rights, including the right to family life.
Hashim warns that democracies are fragile and can collapse when dissent is criminalized. The protection of opposing views, he stresses, is a cornerstone of democratic governance, a principle that must be upheld.
Therefore, Hashim calls on President Tinubu to demonstrate leadership and order the immediate release of Sowore's passport. This action, he believes, is in the interest of justice, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental human rights.
The meeting also served as a reunion of sorts, allowing Sowore to reconnect with long-time comrades. Participants reflected on the defining moments that shaped their commitment to democracy, reminding each other of the importance of civic courage and accountable leadership.
The legal battle surrounding Sowore's passport began in late January 2025 when he was arraigned on a 17-count charge related to cybercrime. On January 30, 2025, the court granted bail, but with a catch - Sowore had to deposit his passport with the court registrar.
In early March 2025, Sowore's legal team fought for the release of his passport to allow him to travel and exercise his right to freedom of movement. However, on March 4, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja denied this request, insisting that the passport remain in their custody until the trial concluded.
The legal actions against Sowore stem from his public criticism of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, in December 2024. Authorities claimed that his comments, referring to the IGP as an "illegal IGP" on social media, were intended to cause a breakdown of law and order, violating the Cybercrimes Act.
The situation took a turn in August 2025 when Sowore was detained after responding to a police invitation. Reports of physical assault during his custody emerged, adding to the concerns about his treatment. While he was eventually released due to public pressure, his travel documents remain entangled in the ongoing judicial processes.
This case raises important questions: Is the seizure of Sowore's passport a necessary measure to maintain order, or is it an abuse of power? How can we balance the need for security with the protection of democratic freedoms?
What are your thoughts? Do you agree with Hashim's assessment, or do you see this as a necessary action to maintain law and order? Let's discuss in the comments and explore these complex issues further.
