Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of allowing the continued detention of suspects through what he described as excessively stringent bail conditions.
Speaking during a public appearance, Sowore alleged that many defendants granted bail by Nigerian courts remain in custody because the conditions imposed are difficult, and in some cases impossible, to fulfil. According to him, such requirements effectively deny suspects their freedom despite court orders approving their release.
The activist argued that the situation undermines the principle of fair hearing and raises concerns about access to justice. He maintained that the purpose of bail is to ensure that defendants appear in court while preserving their constitutional right to liberty, not to create barriers that prolong detention.
Sowore further claimed that restrictive bail terms disproportionately affect individuals with limited financial resources, making it difficult for them to secure release. He called for a review of bail procedures to ensure they are reasonable, proportionate, and consistent with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.
His comments come amid ongoing discussions about reforms in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, with legal practitioners and civil rights groups advocating measures to reduce the number of suspects held in correctional facilities while awaiting trial. Many stakeholders have argued that unnecessary pretrial detention contributes to overcrowded prisons and delays in the judicial process.
The Federal Government has not publicly responded to Sowore’s latest allegations. The Tinubu administration has consistently stated that it is committed to strengthening the rule of law, safeguarding judicial independence, and improving the administration of justice.
Legal experts continue to stress that bail conditions should strike a balance between protecting the integrity of judicial proceedings and respecting the rights of accused persons. They argue that conditions should reflect the circumstances of each case without becoming punitive.
Sowore urged judicial authorities and policymakers to adopt reforms that would make bail more accessible and prevent prolonged detention of suspects who have already been granted conditional release by the courts.
