Sowore Accuses Tinubu of Double Standards over Peace Appeal

The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has accused President Bola Tinubu of double standards over his appeal for peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sowore argued that the President only began speaking against political violence after being confronted by some Nigerians at a mosque in Abuja, alleging that he had previously failed to condemn attacks on opposition politicians and their supporters.

Tinubu had, in a statement on Friday, condemned political violence and urged political parties to centre their campaigns on policies and issues that would improve Nigerians’ welfare. He also directed security agencies to take firm action against political thuggery and other activities capable of undermining democracy.

Reacting in a post on X on Saturday, Sowore questioned why the President had not spoken out against earlier incidents of violence allegedly involving members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He specifically referred to the recent governorship election in Osun State, where he accused APC operatives and supporters of being responsible for the deaths of several people.

The AAC candidate also recalled an attack on his team in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on October 30, 2026. He alleged that the incident was carried out by individuals sponsored by the APC and the City Boy Movement.

Sowore claimed he had publicly accused Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon, and the Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority, Oyetunde Ojo, of involvement in the attack.

He said he had called for an independent investigation but alleged that those identified by his team as principal suspects had yet to face justice.

Sowore further cited an attack on a National Democratic Congress (NDC) town hall meeting in Lagos, where former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi was expected to address supporters.

He also alleged that APC supporters had been involved in deadly political violence in Enugu State and attacks on political opponents in Delta State.

The activist maintained that Tinubu’s appeal for peaceful campaigns would lack credibility unless he also addressed allegations of violence involving members and supporters of his party.

He accused the President of speaking against political hostility only after it had affected him personally, rather than consistently condemning attacks on political opponents.