The Background: Why Was Sowore in Court?
Veteran activist, publisher, and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has long been one of Nigeria's most vocal critics of government policies, corruption, and abuse of power.
Over the years, Sowore has built a reputation as a fearless protest leader through movements such as #RevolutionNow, anti-corruption campaigns, and various pro-democracy demonstrations. His confrontations with successive governments have led to multiple arrests, court cases, and prolonged legal battles.
The latest controversy centers on remarks allegedly made by Sowore about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which have now become the subject of legal proceedings.
As expected, the court appearance attracted a large crowd of activists, supporters, political sympathizers, and media observers who turned out to show solidarity with the former presidential candidate. However, what was supposed to be a peaceful demonstration quickly descended into confusion.
Court Premises Descend Into Chaos
Videos circulating online showed heated arguments and physical confrontations among individuals who had gathered in support of Sowore.
Witnesses at the scene expressed disappointment as supporters who were expected to present a united front began clashing among themselves.
One observer captured in a viral video lamented:
The incident immediately sparked debate across social media, with many Nigerians questioning how an event centered on solidarity transformed into disorder.
Enter VDM: “Why Are You Fighting Yourselves?”
VeryDarkMan (VDM), who has increasingly become one of Nigeria's most influential online activists, reacted strongly after watching footage from the scene. According to him, the behavior displayed by some supporters undermined the very cause they claimed to support.
VDM questioned why individuals who traveled to court to defend Sowore would end up engaging in internal conflicts.
He argued that activism requires discipline, organization, and focus rather than emotional outbursts that create negative headlines.
The Court Entrance Controversy
Another aspect that drew VDM's criticism was footage showing some supporters celebrating after allegedly blocking access to parts of the court premises while demanding Sowore's release.
VDM warned that such actions could backfire badly. According to him, the Federal High Court is a public institution that handles numerous cases daily, many of which have absolutely nothing to do with Sowore.
Blocking entrances, disrupting movement, or creating excessive noise could inconvenience innocent citizens seeking justice and potentially create grounds for stricter security measures.
He stressed that peaceful protest should never become an obstacle to other people's rights.
VDM's Bigger Concern: Activism vs. Content Creation
One of the most controversial parts of VDM's reaction was his claim that some individuals were more interested in creating viral social media content than genuinely supporting Sowore.
According to him, modern activism is increasingly being diluted by people who attend protests primarily to record videos, gain followers, and trend online.
VDM suggested that this mindset often creates unnecessary drama that distracts from the actual issues being fought for. His comments reignited a wider debate about whether some protest movements are becoming performative rather than strategic.
Looking Ahead to June 30
With Sowore's next court appearance approaching, VDM urged supporters to remain calm, organized, and disciplined.
He advised attendees to:
• Avoid blocking court entrances.
• Respect security officials.
• Remain peaceful at all times.
• Focus on the legal process.
• Prevent unnecessary confrontations.
According to VDM, maintaining order is the best way to strengthen any movement and avoid giving opponents ammunition to discredit legitimate activism.
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