The Integrity Youth Alliance has faulted Amnesty International Nigeria over its recent statement alleging that activist Omoyele Sowore is being “consistently targeted by Nigerian authorities for solely exercising his right to freedom of expression.”
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, the group cautioned Amnesty International against what it described as “careless commentary that misrepresents facts and misleads the public.”
The Alliance argued that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it does not grant a license for defamation, blackmail, or misinformation, activities it claimed have been associated with Mr Sowore’s engagements.
“No responsible democracy allows individuals to malign innocent citizens under the guise of free speech,” the statement read.
The group further stressed that Amnesty International Nigeria is not a court of law and lacks the legal authority to determine whether Sowore’s encounters with law enforcement amount to unlawful detention, harassment, or politically motivated prosecution.
According to the Alliance, Nigeria’s judicial system remains open to address grievances through due process.
“What Amnesty International Nigeria deliberately ignored is the fact that Mr Sowore has not been engaging in legitimate activism but has instead weaponised his platform to blackmail and defame well-meaning Nigerians,” the group alleged.
The Integrity Youth Alliance maintained that claims of an escalating crackdown on civic space in Nigeria are unfounded, insisting that civil society remains active and citizens continue to engage freely in public discourse.
The statement urged Amnesty International to desist from issuing “unsubstantiated claims” that, in its view, embolden individuals who misuse freedom of expression for malicious ends.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the Alliance said it stands for responsible activism and respect for the rule of law in Nigeria.
