WE CANNOT CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE WHILE OUR PEOPLE LIVE IN POVERTY — SOWORE
The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has criticised Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations, saying the country has little reason to celebrate while millions of citizens continue to live in poverty.
Sowore made the remarks in a post on X on Thursday, October 1, 2026, calling for an end to corruption, oppression and injustice.
The human rights activist said Nigeria had yet to fulfil the promises of independence for a large section of its population, arguing that freedom should translate into better living conditions and equal opportunities for citizens.
He maintained that Nigerians deserved a country where people could enjoy dignity, equal rights and access to basic services without struggling with hunger, unemployment, insecurity and economic hardship.
Sowore’s comments also drew attention to the responsibilities of political leaders, as he called for a society where public resources are used to improve citizens’ welfare rather than sustain corruption and oppression.
Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, with national celebrations taking place against the backdrop of ongoing debates over economic reforms, insecurity, poverty and the country’s development.
His remarks reflect broader concerns expressed by opposition figures and civil society voices about whether the benefits of independence have reached ordinary Nigerians.
