Free Nnamdi Kanu: Presidency Cautions Sowore — “Justice Is Determined by Courts, Not Street Protests”

The Nigerian Presidency has cautioned human rights activist and political figure, Omoyele Sowore, against attempting to sway ongoing judicial proceedings through street demonstrations or public protests.

According to Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, the Presidency strongly believes that the pursuit of justice must remain within the jurisdiction of the courts, not in the streets or public rallies. The statement was made on Monday, emphasizing that the rule of law and the integrity of the judiciary must be respected at all times.

Dare further noted that justice is a structured process, guided by legal procedures and constitutional provisions. He warned that attempts to pressure the judiciary through protests or mass movements could be interpreted as an attempt to undermine due process.

“The court remains the only legitimate arena for the pursuit of justice,” Dare declared, stressing that no amount of public agitation can substitute the authority of the legal system. He urged activists and civil society members to channel their energy into lawful engagement rather than confrontational actions capable of disrupting national peace.

The Presidency’s reaction comes amid renewed calls by activists and supporters demanding the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). These calls have triggered a fresh wave of protests in different parts of the country, especially in the Southeast region.

However, the Federal Government has maintained that Kanu’s case remains under judicial consideration, and the courts should be allowed to carry out their duties without interference.

Dare reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration supports freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, but emphasized that such freedoms must operate within the bounds of the law.

“The administration is fully committed to upholding human rights,” he explained. “However, it is equally determined to protect the sanctity of the courts and prevent any action that could threaten the nation’s democratic process.”

He further appealed to Sowore and other activists to show restraint, patience, and faith in the Nigerian judicial system, asserting that justice can only be achieved through legal mechanisms, not mob influence.

Observers believe the statement from the Presidency is an attempt to cool growing tensions surrounding the case, especially as supporters of both sides continue to debate on social media and at various public gatherings.

Meanwhile, human rights groups have continued to call for transparency in the trial process, urging the government to respect both the rights of the accused and the integrity of the courts.

This development reflects the ongoing national discourse on balancing justice, free speech, and national stability. It underscores the Presidency’s stance that justice is a matter for the judiciary, not public sentiment or street protests.