Sowore Says Criticising Tinubu or Calling Him Names Is Not a Criminal Offence

African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has defended Nigerians’ right to criticise President Bola Tinubu, arguing that expressing negative opinions about the president should not be treated as a criminal offence in a democratic society.

Sowore made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Monday, where he discussed freedom of expression, political criticism and the limits of government authority.

The activist, who is seeking the presidency in the 2027 general elections, maintained that citizens should be able to express their views about elected leaders without fear of arrest or prosecution simply for their words.

His comments also touched on Tinubu’s own history of political rhetoric, with Sowore arguing that the president understands the importance of allowing people to speak freely.

Sowore Defends Freedom of Expression

During the television interview, Sowore said that criticising the president or using insulting language against him should not, in itself, constitute an offence.

He argued that democratic governance requires public officials to tolerate criticism, including harsh or unflattering remarks from citizens.

To illustrate his position, Sowore said that if he were president and learned that someone had been arrested for criticising or insulting him, he would dismiss the intelligence officer responsible.

He suggested that such an arrest would demonstrate a failure to understand the principles of democratic governance and the public’s right to express opinions about those in power.

Sowore Points to Tinubu’s Own Political Rhetoric

Sowore also referred to Tinubu’s past political statements, alleging that the president has used name-calling against political opponents and other public figures.

He described this as part of the reason he believes Tinubu understands why people should not face prosecution merely for expressing critical opinions.

Sowore further stated that Tinubu had repeatedly said he did not want people arrested or prosecuted for calling him names.

The remarks were presented as Sowore’s account of Tinubu’s position and past conduct. The interview excerpt does not independently establish the context of those earlier statements.

Why the Debate Matters

Freedom of expression is protected under Section 39 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to hold opinions and share information and ideas without interference. However, the right is subject to certain lawful restrictions, meaning that the legality of particular statements depends on the circumstances and applicable law.

Sowore’s remarks bring renewed attention to the relationship between political criticism, citizens’ rights and the responsibilities of public officials in a democratic system.

The distinction between expressing an opinion, making an allegation and engaging in conduct that may violate the law remains important when assessing disputes involving public figures.

What Happens Next?

The interview has placed Sowore’s views on political criticism and freedom of expression in the spotlight ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The supplied report does not indicate whether Tinubu or the Presidency issued a response to Sowore’s latest remarks. It also does not provide further details about the specific past statements Sowore referenced.

Readers should distinguish between Sowore’s political position and the legal principles governing freedom of expression in Nigeria.