Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has rejected claims by the Nigerian Bar Association that he staged a press conference inside a courtroom, describing the allegation as misleading and damaging to democratic values.
The NBA, through its president Afam Osigwe, had earlier cautioned against turning courtrooms into venues for media briefings following Sowore’s recent appearance at the Federal High Court.
Responding via his verified X account, Sowore criticised the association’s statement, calling it disappointing and accusing the body of promoting a narrative that does not reflect the true sequence of events.
“I have read the statement issued by the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association, and I must say this is yet another sad day for democracy in Nigeria. While I understand that the NBA may feel compelled to defend one of its own, such defence must not be built on falsehoods,” he wrote.
Sowore clarified that his visit to the Federal High Court was to obtain a Certified True Copy of a ruling that struck out a cybercrime charge filed against him in January 2025. He denied organising any press briefing, insisting that he merely responded to questions from journalists already present at the court premises.
“I did not organise any press conference. I responded to questions, as I have done consistently over the years,” he said.
He explained that the process of obtaining the court document was delayed after the registrar informed him that the judge had not yet signed the order due to fresh motions filed by the police, including an application to relist the case. According to him, he and his legal team protested what they viewed as an irregularity and were asked to wait.
While waiting, he said reporters approached him for comments, which he granted, describing the interaction as a routine occurrence within court environments.
Sowore also accused the NBA of selective outrage, questioning its silence in previous incidents involving alleged breaches of court procedures.
“Where was this energy when DSS operatives invaded a courtroom to abduct me before a sitting judge?” he asked.
He stressed that institutions like the NBA must prioritise truth and fairness, warning that the spread of inaccurate claims could erode public confidence in the justice system.
What you should know
Omoyele Sowore has denied claims by the Nigerian Bar Association that he held a press conference inside a courtroom, insisting he only responded to journalists’ questions.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between activists and legal institutions in Nigeria. Sowore also accused the NBA of selective criticism, raising concerns about consistency in defending judicial standards.
The situation underscores broader debates about freedom of expression, courtroom conduct, and public trust in Nigeria’s legal system.
