Omoyele Sowore has fired back at critics who accuse him of creating a false sense of opposition, saying that if they believe his activism is staged, they should put their own younger brother in harm’s way, watch him get killed, bury him, and then continue their activism.
The Nigerian human rights activist and former presidential candidate argued that anyone making such claims should first experience the personal sacrifices, losses, and dangers he has endured before questioning his commitment.
Speaking during an interview with Symfoni TV, Sowore dismissed allegations that his activism in Nigeria is funded to manufacture opposition. He said those who hold such views are free to express them, but they fail to understand the real cost of activism.
He recounted his years of persecution, including being expelled from university twice, sustaining a broken nose, his mother having a stroke triggered by his prolonged detention, and having his passport seized for years, which prevented him from seeing his wife and children.
Sowore emphasized that true activism differs from political opposition, which he described as cyclical and often driven by self-interest. He said he does not fall into the category of people who oppose government only when they are out of government.
According to Sowore, activists worldwide often face narratives designed to scandalize and undermine their credibility, but responding to such attacks only distracts from the work. He said individuals are entitled to their opinions, even when misguided, insisting that he is fighting for a country where people can speak freely without fear of punishment.
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