PLAC Raises Concerns Over Sowore’s Remand, Calls for Due Process

The Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) has expressed concerns over the Federal High Court’s decision to revoke the bail of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and order his remand at Kuje Correctional Centre.

In a statement issued today and signed by its Executive Director, Clement Nwankwo, PLAC said the court’s action raises “important concerns regarding personal liberty, fair hearing, and adherence to constitutional safeguards in the administration of justice.”

While acknowledging that courts have authority to enforce compliance with their orders, PLAC stressed that such powers must align with constitutional principles. The Centre cited the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to personal liberty and fair hearing, regardless of allegations against them.

PLAC noted that detention for alleged non-compliance with court processes should be “a measure of last resort” and guided by necessity, proportionality, and fairness. The group added that public confidence in the justice system depends on transparency, predictability, and consistency with constitutional guarantees.

Without commenting on the merits of the case, PLAC emphasized that judicial decisions affecting personal liberty must meet “the highest standards of fairness and due process” to sustain public trust in democratic institutions.

The Centre said it respects the independence of the judiciary and recognizes that court decisions are subject to appellate review. PLAC pledged to continue monitoring developments in the matter and reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, constitutionalism, good governance, and the rule of law in Nigeria.