According to a report by Daily Post on Monday, October 20, 2025, former senator and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has defended Omoyele Sowore’s decision to flee the scene of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja when security operatives allegedly fired gunshots and released tear gas.
The protest, which was held to demand the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, descended into chaos following reports of a heavy security crackdown.
Eyewitnesses said that the demonstration began peacefully before armed security personnel arrived and began dispersing protesters. In viral footage circulating online, Sowore was seen running from the scene along with other demonstrators as sounds of gunfire echoed in the background.
The video sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with some critics mocking the activist for what they described as an act of fear. According to them, a true activist should remain unshaken in the face of intimidation, regardless of the risk involved.
However, Shehu Sani dismissed the criticisms, describing Sowore’s action as both logical and responsible under the circumstances.
The former lawmaker explained that running away from live gunfire or tear gas should not be misinterpreted as cowardice but rather as a show of wisdom and restraint in the face of imminent danger.
Sani noted that it would have been reckless for Sowore or any protester to confront heavily armed officers in such a volatile situation. He argued that survival was an essential part of activism because one must live to continue advocating for justice and democratic freedoms.
“Running away during protest is not an act of cowardice. It’s a strategy to dodge the bullet or the tear gas in order to fight another day,” Sani said.
The former senator added a touch of humor to his defense, saying, “Facing an armed policeman on the 20th day of the month after his last salary requires some form of caution. Comrade Sowore is bravely wise.”
According to Sani, choosing to retreat in moments of violent confrontation should be regarded as self-preservation rather than surrender. He said no activist benefits from unnecessary martyrdom, especially when the cause they fight for requires persistence and continuity. See, More, Here>>>>
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