An Ondo State–born activist, Emorioloye Owoyemi, has alleged that a Nigerian Federal High court remanded him in prison custody following a dispute with Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Ojo. According to Owoyemi, the disagreement stemmed from his persistent demands for verification of the Minister’s academic certificates.
He further claims that prior to his remand, he was repeatedly harassed by the lawless Department of State Services (DSS), allegedly acting on behalf of the Minister over the same issue.
I strongly condemn the use of public office and state institutions to initiate legal action in the name of the Federal Government (FRN vs…) against a citizen who sought accountability. I ask the Minister of Justice and Attorney General to immediately discontinue these trials whether i Akure or Enugu or elsewhere. The reported remand order amonuts to the misuse of power.
There is a growing intoxication by the aides and ministers under Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as some state governors especially officials in Niger State, Borno, Gombe, Tarab who have resorted to using security agencies to intimidate critics.
Similarly, allegations have emerged involving the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, in connection with the detention of lawyer Moses Odirrhi by the DSS, followed by what has been described as procured prosecution.
These disturbing revelations represent a troubling pattern of suppressing dissent and discouraging public scrutiny. In a democratic society, public officials must remain open to questioning and accountability.
Citizens have the right to demand transparency from those who hold public office. If anyone is not ready for public scrutiny he or she should simply don’t accept public offices./Omoyele Spwore
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