Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has publicly challenged several prominent Nigerian political figures, accusing them of consistently avoiding direct responses to his criticisms.
Speaking in a video interview released by TV Platinum on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Sowore alleged that a pattern has emerged in which high-profile politicians decline to engage him when he raises allegations or questions about their records in public office.
According to Sowore, the individuals he has repeatedly mentioned in his critiques include former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, and current Abia State governor Alex Otti.
He stated, “You will see that whenever I mention Malami, he cannot address me. If I bring up Peter Obi, he does not respond. When I speak about El-Rufai, he will never reply.”
Sowore further argued that this silence is not coincidental but deliberate, suggesting that the political figures in question are unwilling to confront the issues he raises. He maintained that his criticisms are grounded in verifiable facts, which, according to him, makes it difficult for those he accuses to counter his claims effectively.
Expanding on his position, Sowore said, “Whenever I mention Alex Otti, he too will not respond because I am aware of who they are individually, and when I confront them, they realize that I bring genuine facts, so they hide behind various people and places to avoid replying.”
The activist called on the politicians to address his allegations directly rather than remaining silent or responding indirectly through intermediaries. He emphasized the importance of accountability in a democratic system, noting that public officials should be willing to defend their actions and policies openly.
“They should be courageous enough. When I allege something against you, come out and state that Sowore is lying,” he said.
Sowore also used the opportunity to criticize governance practices in Abia State, particularly under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti. Drawing from what he described as personal observations during a recent visit to the state, Sowore expressed dissatisfaction with the level of development he witnessed.
“When I discuss Otti, I reflect on my trip to Abia where what I witnessed was mediocrity,” he remarked.
Beyond specific criticisms of individual leaders, Sowore broadened his argument to address what he sees as a systemic issue affecting public perception of governance in Nigeria. He suggested that many citizens may not fully recognize substandard governance due to limited exposure to better alternatives.
“The issue is that many people who have never experienced competent governance, it is unfair to blame them,” he explained.
He further illustrated his point by referencing infrastructure development, stating that individuals who have not seen well-planned roads featuring designated lanes for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians may lack the framework to evaluate the quality of public projects.
... They Avoid Me Because I Bring Facts”—Sowore Claims Malami, Obi, El-Rufai, Otti Refuse to Respond ... Sportify Post.