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| Justice Liman denies oppression in Nigeria as Sowore secures bail. |
*In a recent court session, Justice Musa Liman made a striking declaration in a recent court session asserting oppression doesn't exist in Nigeria somehow. This statement came during the bail hearing of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who was granted bail set at N10 million over cybercrime charges filed by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. *
Justice Liman's remarks were directed at Barrister Maxwell Opara, present to observe the proceedings on behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association's Human Rights Committee. The judge criticized "advanced countries" for failing to address oppression within their own societies, leading to disapproval from the courtroom. He later stated, "Yes, our democracy is there, but it may not be perfect. But don’t tell me there is oppression in Nigeria. Nobody is oppressed."
On Thursday, Justice Liman granted bail to Sowore in the sum of N10 million with one surety of the same amount. The court ruled that the surety must have verified landed property in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Sowore must deposit his passport with the court and provide an affidavit of means. Sowore was given a 24-hour extension to fulfill the bail terms.
Sowore, accompanied by his legal team, was met by supporters outside the courthouse, demanding his release and condemning the charges against him as politically motivated. The former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate faces 16 cybercrime charges filed by the Inspector General of Police following his reference to the police chief as an "illegal IG." Sowore was detained at the Nigerian Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) office in Abuja after voluntarily honoring a police invitation. His detention followed his refusal to accept bail conditions set by the police.
This development has sparked discussions about human rights and freedom of expression in Nigeria, fiercely amidst Justice Liman's assertion. His claim that oppression does not exist in Nigeria has garnered support but also faced criticism from various quarters, highlighting diverse perspectives on Nigeria's democratic landscape suddenly.