By Amb. Chinonso Chukwuemeka
The recent outburst by Mr. Omoyele Sowore, wherein he described the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “regime” and alleged that “President Tinubu is a criminal,” is not only reckless but also a calculated attempt to mislead Nigerians and the international community. Such careless utterances diminish the sanctity of public discourse and undermine the nation’s democratic values.
First and foremost, Nigeria is not under a “regime.” The government of President Tinubu emerged through a credible, transparent, and democratic electoral process. The mandate given to him by millions of Nigerians cannot be trivialized by the rhetoric of those who lost at the polls.
The Federal Government operates strictly within the dictates of constitutional democracy and has never weaponized the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), or any other security agency against Mr. Sowore or his African Action Congress (AAC).
It is also imperative to correct the false narrative that the DSS are lawless. Contrary to Sowore’s claims, the DSS has acted within the ambit of the law. In every democracy, security agencies are empowered to protect national interests, ensure law and order, and investigate allegations. As the legal maxim goes, he who alleges must prove.
If Mr. Sowore insists that President Tinubu is a criminal, then the burden of proof rests on him, not on unfounded propaganda. Until then, such accusations remain baseless and malicious.
Furthermore, Sowore’s attempt to portray President Tinubu as having “exported disgrace to the United States” is misplaced and mischievous. On the contrary, President Tinubu has consistently upheld Nigeria’s image as a nation that practices constitutional democracy and respects international partnerships.
His engagements on the global stage are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s economy, democracy, and international standing—not tarnishing it.
Equally misleading is Sowore’s description of Nigeria as being “held hostage by a tiny, wicked band of rogues.” This statement is not only insulting to the millions of Nigerians who freely elected their leaders but also an affront to the democratic process itself.
Nigeria is governed by a democratically elected government that enjoys the support and confidence of its citizens. Despite challenges, as is normal with every democracy, Nigerians remain optimistic and committed to the present government’s drive toward national development.
Mr. Sowore must understand that freedom of speech does not equate to freedom to slander or malign. Political disagreements should be expressed responsibly, not through reckless statements that threaten national unity and international perception.
In conclusion, Nigerians and the global community must dismiss Sowore’s baseless attacks for what they are: a desperate attempt to stay politically relevant. President Tinubu’s government remains a democratic administration, committed to the rule of law, good governance, and the welfare of all Nigerians.
Amb. Chinonso Chukwuemeka writes from Akwa, Anambra state
