When we talk about Nigeria’s independence, it is inevitable to delve into a deep reflection on what this notion really means to the Nigerian people. At the heart of the recent protests by the African Action Congress (AAC) 2023 presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, is a call for a new form of independence, quite different from the one achieved in 1960.
Sowore, at the recent FearlessInOctober movement in Ikeja, Lagos, delivered a riveting speech emphasizing the need for genuine independence. He sharply criticized the ruling political class, calling them responsible for the poverty and corruption in the country. According to him, the hard-won independence of 1960 must now be complemented by a constant quest for a new form of freedom, without compromise.
The human rights activist has made a clear call on the federal government to release protesters detained during the recent #EndBadGovernance and #EndSars protests. He stressed the urgency of this demand, demanding the immediate release of all protesters still incarcerated across the country.
Sowore’s call for a “new independence” underscores a deep desire for change and progress for Nigeria. It highlights the need for collective action and continued vigilance to fight corruption and injustice, and to ensure a better future for all Nigerians.
In conclusion, Sowore’s intervention at the FearlessInOctober movement resonates as a call to action and mobilisation for a more just, transparent and prosperous Nigeria. It reminds us that the struggle for independence and justice is not limited to a historical date, but is a constant and unfinished effort towards a better future for all.
By bringing together the voices of engaged and determined citizens, Nigeria can truly usher in a new era of independence, anchored in the true values of democracy, transparency and equality. The path to this “new independence” is fraught with obstacles, but with collective will and unwavering commitment, it becomes possible to build a brighter future for this great African nation.