‘They murdered my brother, seized my passport’ — Sowore alleges persecution by government

Rights Activist, Omoyele Sowore, has alleged that he and members of his family have faced years of persecution by successive Nigerian governments, including the current administration.

The allegation was contained in a statement posted on Sowore’s official page on July 13, 2026.

According to Sowore, the alleged actions against him included his expulsion from the University of Lagos, seizure of his National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, certificate and repeated confiscation of his international passport.

He also claimed that authorities used court orders and security agencies to prevent him from travelling, resulting in prolonged separation from his family.

“They targeted my education, resulting in my expulsion from the University of Lagos twice. They seized my NYSC certificate, hoping I would never secure employment after graduation.”

“They have repeatedly confiscated my travel documents, especially my international passport, keeping me separated from my family for extended periods.”

Sowore further alleged that he had been imprisoned, prosecuted, assaulted and harassed over the years, adding that members of his family and associates had also been affected.

“They have imprisoned me, prosecuted me, assaulted me, shot at me, harassed those around me, murdered my brother, and tried to break my resolve.”

He said the alleged persecution had not weakened his resolve.

“But they have failed. Persecution cannot defeat conviction, and these acts will not delay their day of judgment,” he stated.