The Accord Party presidential flag bearer in the next year’s election, 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 Democracy Day demonstrations.
Hashim described the incident as a troubling sign for Nigeria’s democratic future and warned that democracy cannot survive where citizens are intimidated for demanding accountability.
“The right to peaceful protest, free expression, and civic participation are fundamental elements of democracy and must not be undermined,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.
“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 added.
Hashim, who recently became MDR co-chair alongside Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, said the movement was established to defend Nigeria’s democratic space and prevent a drift toward authoritarianism.
According to him, Democracy Day should mark not only the return to civilian rule but also serve as a reminder of the responsibility to protect democratic values, including freedom of expression, justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.
The Accord candidate also condemned the continued harassment of Sowore, including the seizure of his passport, which he said remains unresolved despite legal interventions.
Hashim said MDR would continue to mobilise democratic forces, civil society, labour, and citizens committed to protecting democratic institutions and expanding civic freedoms.
“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.
