They expelled me, jailed me, seized my NYSC certificate’ — Sowore alleges government persecution

Rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has alleged that he and members of his family have endured years of persecution by successive Nigerian governments, including the current administration.

Sowore made the claims in a statement posted on his official social media page on July 13, 2026.

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

Sowore also claimed that court orders and security agencies were used to restrict his movements, preventing him from travelling and keeping him separated from his family for extended periods.

“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,” he said.

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

The activist further alleged that he had been imprisoned, prosecuted, assaulted and subjected to sustained harassment over the years. He also claimed that members of his family and associates had been targeted.

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

Despite the alleged persecution, Sowore maintained that his determination remains unshaken.

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