Activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has raised concerns over what he described as a growing pattern of intimidation against dissenting voices in Nigeria, following allegations of an assassination plot disclosed by fellow activist Chizorom Harrison Ofoegbu, popularly known as Ijele.
Sowore, in a statement shared on the social media platform X, said the alleged plot should not be viewed as an isolated incident but rather as part of a broader and sustained effort to silence critics who speak out against injustice and oppression in the country.
“The assassination plot against me, as revealed by Harrison Ofoegbu, also known as ‘@IjeleSpeaks2,’ is not an isolated incident,” Sowore stated.
“It is part of a consistent and deeply troubling pattern of targeted intimidation and violence aimed at silencing dissent and crushing voices that challenge injustice.”
The former presidential candidate emphasized that the allegations reinforce his long-held belief that outspoken individuals in Nigeria are often subjected to threats and coordinated attacks designed to suppress their activism. According to him, such actions are deliberate and systematic, rather than random occurrences.
He maintained that despite these alleged threats, his commitment to advocating for change remains unwavering.
Sowore also reflected on his past interactions with Ofoegbu, recalling that they first met at the Federal High Court in Abuja during proceedings related to the trial of Nnamdi Kanu. He noted that although their initial encounter was marked by tension, it eventually evolved into cooperation.
The activist further alleged that Ofoegbu himself had faced persecution, including arrest and prolonged detention under stringent bail conditions. He claimed there were also attempts to transfer Ofoegbu under circumstances he believed could have posed a serious risk to his safety.
Drawing parallels to his own experiences, Sowore said he has survived multiple assassination attempts over the years, some of which he alleged involved security operatives. He also referenced the 2021 killing of his brother, Felix Olajide Sowore, describing the incident as controversial and indicative of the dangers surrounding his activism.
According to Sowore, threats against his life date back to his days as a student leader at the University of Lagos in the 1990s, when he claimed that security forces routinely targeted vocal student activists.
He argued that these actions were intended to silence him and others pushing for reform, but insisted that such efforts have ultimately failed.
“The recent revelations by @IjeleSpeaks2 should not be dismissed as mere outbursts,” he said.
“While he did not personally disclose to me the specifics of any plot, I have long been aware of repeated attempts on my life… But it is too late. The struggle for total liberation is already in motion. Nothing can stop it.”
The claims have sparked conversations among civil society groups and political observers, with many calling for thorough investigations into the allegations and greater protection for activists and dissenting voices.
While authorities have yet to officially respond to the specific claims, analysts note that concerns about the safety of activists and political critics have been a recurring issue in Nigeria’s democratic space.
Sowore’s remarks add to ongoing debates about freedom of expression, human rights, and the role of dissent in a democratic society, as stakeholders continue to call for accountability and safeguards to protect citizens who speak out against perceived injustice.
