By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo
Accord Party presidential candidate and Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has condemned the reported attack on human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and other protesters during a Democracy Day demonstration.
Hashim described the incident as a troubling development for Nigeria’s democratic space, stressing that the right to peaceful protest, free expression and civic participation are fundamental pillars of democracy.
He said Democracy Day should serve not only as a reminder of Nigeria’s return to civilian rule but also as a call to protect democratic values such as freedom of expression, justice, constitutionalism and the rule of law.
“Democracy is strengthened when citizens can freely speak, organise and demand accountability from those entrusted with power. Any attempt to suppress these freedoms weakens democracy itself,” he said.
The presidential candidate, who recently became co-chair of the Movement for Democratic Renewal alongside Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, said the group was established to defend democratic space and prevent any erosion of civic freedoms.
Hashim also expressed concern over what he described as the continued harassment of Sowore, including issues surrounding the seizure of his passport, calling for due legal processes to be respected.
He said the Movement for Democratic Renewal would continue to mobilise civil society, labour groups and citizens committed to strengthening democratic institutions and protecting civic rights.
“Nigeria must not return to an era where dissent is treated as a crime and citizens are denied their democratic rights. The defence of democracy is the responsibility of all who believe in freedom and accountable leadership,” he said.
He urged security agencies and relevant authorities to respect citizens’ constitutional rights while maintaining public order.
