‘You see how it feels to be persecuted’ — Sowore Mocks Malami

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on Monday engaged former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, in a heated but brief exchange at the Federal High Court in Abuja, an encounter that quickly went viral on social media.

The incident occurred within the court premises as both men attended separate proceedings. Eyewitnesses said Sowore approached Malami and addressed him directly over his ongoing legal troubles, drawing comparisons with his tenure in office under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Sowore also told the former minister that he was now experiencing the same system he once supervised.

“You see how it feels now to be persecuted. When you were with Buhari, you were bragging. We warned you then that there was failure in the justice system, but you didn’t listen, and now the system is dealing with you,” Sowore said.

The exchange attracted the attention of lawyers, litigants and other court users present, with some reacting with muted laughter as the moment unfolded.

Sowore, who leads the Revolution Now movement, also attempted to hand Malami an orange beret, describing it as a symbol of resistance.

“I want to give you my cap. This is a revolutionary cap,” he added.

Despite the tense moment, Sowore later remarked on Malami’s composure, noting that he appeared calm in the face of his legal challenges.

“At least I’m glad that you are strong. We are not all on the same side; even the oppressors are oppressing you now. As far as the Nigerian project is concerned, no matter how powerful you people are, we will never support you. We are resilient till tomorrow,” he said.

Malami, however, responded briefly, maintaining confidence in his legal position and court appearances.

“I can never be down. I have been attending all my court sittings. I will keep attending. And I remain strong,” he said.

The former Attorney-General is currently facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) over allegations bordering on money laundering, unlawful possession of firearms, and unlawful acquisition of assets.

He is also challenging a court order relating to the temporary forfeiture of some of his assets, insisting they were acquired lawfully.

The confrontation between Sowore and Malami has since generated reactions across social media, with supporters and critics of both men weighing in on the public exchange inside the court environment.