Lawyer and humanitarian activist Maxwell Opara has criticized the handling of a recent court decision involving African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, raising concerns about due process and fair hearing.
The case, which resulted in Sowore being jailed, has sparked debate among legal practitioners, political observers, and human rights advocates. Critics argue that the matter raises broader questions about judicial procedures and the protection of constitutional rights.
Opara, who said he was present during the court proceedings, claimed that key procedural requirements were not followed. According to him, there was inadequate notice and insufficient opportunity for the accused to be heard before the ruling was made.
“I was in court that day; around 12, I left to take my drugs. You do not serve him hearing notice. On the following day, less than 24 hours later, he left. He did not say, ‘For fair hearing, let me give you the benefit of doubt.’ And the Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who is also a senior officer in the temple of justice, moved the court to grant that order,” Opara said.
Supporters of Sowore have echoed Opara’s concerns, describing the incident as part of wider challenges faced by opposition figures. However, some legal analysts have urged caution, noting that court rulings often involve legal complexities that may not be immediately apparent to the public.
