The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has condemned the revocation of the bail granted to Omoyele Sowore and his subsequent incarceration, warning that the development could undermine freedom of expression and democratic participation in Nigeria.

DLA’s National Chairman, Barr. Samuel M. Meme said that while his party remains committed to the rule of law and respects the independence of the judiciary, the circumstances surrounding Sowore’s imprisonment raise concerns about democratic tolerance and the protection of dissenting voices.

The DLA noted that Nigeria is currently grappling with insecurity, kidnapping, terrorism, economic hardship and rising poverty, arguing that greater attention should be devoted to addressing these challenges rather than actions capable of shrinking the democratic space.

According to the group, democracy thrives when citizens are free to question authority, challenge government policies and hold leaders accountable, regardless of political affiliation.

The alliance urged the judiciary to continue upholding fairness, impartiality and constitutional rights, while calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant authorities to demonstrate greater tolerance for dissenting opinions and focus on tackling the nation’s security and economic challenges.

It maintained that Nigeria’s most pressing threats are insecurity, unemployment, corruption and institutional weaknesses, stressing that the country needs stronger democratic institutions, improved governance and greater protection of fundamental freedoms.

The group added that the solution to Nigeria’s security and governance challenges lies in effective security operations, economic development, job creation, intelligence gathering, anti-corruption measures and social investments capable of restoring hope to millions of citizens.

It therefore urged all institutions of government to concentrate on securing lives, rebuilding the economy and strengthening democratic institutions.

Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), is facing prosecution over allegations linked to his public comments against the integrity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and activities that authorities contend violated court directives and other provisions of the law.

The court recently revoked his bail after finding that he had allegedly breached some of the conditions attached to it. Following the revocation, the activist was remanded in custody pending further proceedings in the case.

The development has generated mixed reactions across the country, with supporters describing the prosecution as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to free speech and democratic freedoms, while government supporters insist that all citizens, irrespective of status or political affiliation, must be subject to the rule of law and judicial processes.