DSS Has Shown Sowore Restraint, Says Ughegbe

DSS Has Shown Sowore Restraint, Says Ughegbe

Public affairs analyst argues that proposed suspension of cyberbullying trial demonstrates goodwill, but insists activist must remain accountable.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has shown considerable restraint in its dealings with activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, despite his repeated criticism of the agency, public affairs analyst, Dr Lemmy Ughegbe, has said.

Ughegbe argued that the Service’s willingness to consider suspending Sowore’s alleged cyberbullying trial to allow him pursue his presidential ambition was evidence of goodwill towards the activist.

He spoke on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics while commenting on allegations of security agencies’ involvement in an incident involving Sowore and his supporters at a restaurant in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State.

According to him, Sowore initially rejected the DSS proposal to suspend his trial but later approached the same court seeking an adjournment to enable him participate in political activities.

Ughegbe described the development as a contradiction, noting that Sowore had ridiculed an earlier proposal by the agency before subsequently seeking similar relief from the court.

He also faulted Sowore for allegedly bypassing his legal counsel and writing directly to the court to request time for campaign activities.

The analyst maintained that the DSS, under its current leadership, had demonstrated professionalism and restraint, despite Sowore’s frequent accusations against the agency.

“The DSS has shown laudable restraint in its dealing with Sowore,” he said.

He added that the agency had the capacity to act otherwise if it wished, insisting that its conduct so far should be acknowledged.

However, Ughegbe stressed that the agency’s perceived goodwill did not absolve it of its responsibility to conclude the cyberbullying case.

He also warned against condemning security agencies based solely on allegations, insisting that public institutions and political actors should be subjected to scrutiny based on evidence.

Describing Sowore’s political ambitions as an additional reason for public scrutiny, Ughegbe said activists seeking political leadership must also demonstrate accountability.

“That you are a part-time activist or politician does not equally place you above scrutiny,” he said.

He maintained that accountability must apply equally to security agencies and individuals who make allegations against them, adding that anyone seeking public office should be prepared to have their words and actions examined.