Nigerian grassroots activist faces persecution, threats

Reported by Femi Alaja
February 27, 2023.

Shoderu Oluseyi Olanrewaju, a prominent Nigerian grassroots activist, has revealed plans to flee the country due to escalating threats to his life and family. These threats stem from his unwavering stance against electoral manipulation and his advocacy for community participation in local politics.

Speaking to pressmen on Tuesday, at the Police Criminal Investigation Department annex in Alagbon, Lagos, Olanrewaju recounted the series of events that led to his current predicament. His troubles began in 2022 when influential political actors in his community and state allegedly targeted him for his vocal opposition to electoral malpractice.

Olanrewaju claimed that he has been kidnapped multiple times, assaulted by political thugs, and detained by security agents collaborating with his persecutors. The most recent attack, which occurred on Tuesday, involved political thugs setting fire to his house and business, forcing his family to flee for safety.

Despite reporting these incidents to the police, Olanrewaju alleged that no meaningful action was taken, and some security personnel even advised him to comply with the demands of his persecutors.

Olanrewaju expressed concerns about the growing trend of political assassination in Nigeria, citing the unsolved murders of notable individuals like Dele Arojo, Godwin Agbroko, and Funsho Williams, among others. He emphasized the need for urgent attention to address this worrisome phenomenon.

As Olanrewaju considers fleeing Nigeria to ensure his safety, his story highlights the risks faced by activists and whistleblowers who dare to challenge the status quo in the country’s political landscape.