•Omoyele Sowore
Nigerian workers under the aegis of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have condemned what it described as the “inhuman treatment” of activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, by operatives of the Department of State Services at the Federal High Court in Abuja, warning that such actions pose a threat to democratic institutions.
In a statement, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the conduct of DSS personnel during Sowore’s arrest as intimidating, embarrassing and far below the professionalism expected of the nation’s secret service.
Ajaero said the chaotic manner in which the activist was taken into custody amounted to unnecessary intimidation and public humiliation, adding that it painted an image inconsistent with the restraint and sophistication expected of the DSS, reports The Guardian.
He also questioned the agency’s role in the case, arguing that it appeared to have stepped beyond its constitutional mandate.
According to him, criminal prosecution is ordinarily the responsibility of the Ministry of Justice through the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, warning that allowing a security agency to act as both accuser and jailer could erode public confidence in the justice system.
The labour leader cautioned that when state institutions prioritise the protection of individuals or governments above the broader interests of the state, democratic principles and the rule of law are endangered.
Drawing parallels with the Watergate scandal in the United States, Ajaero stressed the need for strong institutions to sustain democracy, warning that attempts by public institutions to curry favour with political leaders could weaken democratic governance.
He urged security agencies to respect citizens’ rights and operate strictly within the confines of the law, insisting that democracy can only thrive where institutions remain independent, professional and accountable.
Ajaero further called on all state institutions to uphold constitutional principles and ensure the protection of individual rights in the administration of justice.
