A faith-based civil liberties organisation, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has called for the release of detained activist, Omoyele Sowore, while cautioning him and other rights advocates to exercise restraint and civility in public discourse.
The position of the group was contained in a press statement issued on Thursday by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola.
Sowore, a social critic and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), was recently remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations bordering on cybercrime, including reportedly referring to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal.”
Reacting to the development, MURIC expressed concern over the detention, noting that incarcerating activists could undermine Nigeria’s democratic image and raise questions about respect for freedom of expression.
“Locking up activists dents the image of Nigeria’s democracy and questions our respect for free speech,” the statement said, while also acknowledging that freedom of speech must be exercised within limits that respect the dignity of others.
While stressing that it does not support interference in judicial processes, the group nonetheless called for Sowore’s release, describing him as “a young Nigerian soaked in the bath waters of patriotism” who should be treated with caution.
MURIC further warned that prolonged detention and delays in judicial proceedings could be interpreted as political persecution and described such trends as precursors to “judicial rascality.”
However, the organisation also advised Sowore and other activists to avoid what it described as “youthful exuberance” and “reckless pronouncements,” urging them to adopt a more responsible and measured approach in their engagements.
“As activists, we can be radical yet rational. We can be articulate yet responsible,” Akintola stated, adding that public figures must recognise their influence as role models, especially among young people.
The group emphasised the importance of civility, urging activists to use parliamentary language and avoid vulgar or disrespectful expressions.
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“Against the background of our culture as Africans, our activists must avoid vulgar language, indecorous behaviour and disrespectful demeanour,” the statement added.
MURIC further encourage constructive engagement, noting that strong advocacy can be achieved without hostility or rudeness.
The statement was accompanied by calls against prolonged detention and judicial delays, as well as appeals for responsible activism.
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