By Onilede Titi Faith
During the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations on June 12, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu released a list of national honorees recognized for their contributions to Nigeria’s development and democracy.
Among those honored were: Kudirat Abiola (CFR) ,Posthumously recognized for her pro-democracy activism.
Ken Saro-Wiwa (CON), Honored posthumously for his environmental advocacy.
Wole Soyinka (GCON), Celebrated for his literary and intellectual contributions.
While the list sparked public debate and speculation over possible recipients, activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, swiftly distanced himself from any potential association with the awards.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms, Sowore strongly rejected the idea of being linked to the Tinubu-led administration or any national honour it might confer on him.
He wrote: “If I were mistakenly included by Tinubu on his ‘National Award’ list, I would not only reject and denounce the award but also take definitive legal action for defamation.”
Sowore, a longtime critic of the Nigerian government and former presidential candidate, emphasized that he would never accept recognition from an administration he accuses of undermining democratic values.
His reaction reflects growing tensions between the government and outspoken civil society voices amid ongoing discussions about governance, transparency, and national recognition.
