Issued: 22 June 2026

The decision of the Federal High Court in Abuja to revoke the bail previously granted to human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and order his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre has raised important concerns regarding personal liberty, fair hearing, and adherence to constitutional safeguards in the administration of justice.

Courts possess the authority to enforce compliance with their orders and to ensure the orderly conduct of judicial proceedings. Such authority is essential to the effective administration of justice. At the same time, the exercise of judicial powers must remain consistent with the constitutional principles that protect personal liberty, guarantee fair hearing, and uphold the rule of law.

The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), guarantees every person the right to personal liberty and fair hearing. These rights apply equally to all persons appearing before the courts, irrespective of the allegations against them or the nature of the proceedings. Decisions affecting liberty should therefore be taken in accordance with due process and with careful regard to all relevant facts and circumstances presented before the court.

As a matter of principle, detention arising from alleged non-compliance with court processes should remain a measure of last resort and should be guided by considerations of necessity, proportionality, and fairness. Public confidence in the justice system is strengthened when judicial processes are seen to be transparent, predictable, and fully consistent with constitutional guarantees.

Without commenting on the merits of the proceedings, which remain before the court, we note the importance of ensuring that all judicial decisions affecting personal liberty are subject to the highest standards of fairness and due process. These safeguards are essential not only for the protection of individual rights but also for sustaining public trust in democratic institutions and the administration of justice.

PLAC respects the independence of the judiciary and recognises that decisions of the courts are subject to review through established appellate processes.

We will continue to follow developments in the matter and reaffirm our commitment to the protection of human rights, constitutionalism, good governance, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

Signed:

Clement Nwankwo

Executive Director