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By Oscar Okhifo
Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has paid glowing tribute to fellow activist Omoyele Sowore as he marks his 55th birthday, describing him as a foremost defender of the oppressed and vulnerable in society.
In a statement issued on Monday, Adeyanju lauded Sowore’s unwavering commitment to justice and accountability, noting that he has consistently chosen principle over personal comfort in his advocacy for a better Nigeria.
“Today, I celebrate Omoyele Sowore at 55 as a foremost human rights activist and a relentless defender of the oppressed and the vulnerable,” Adeyanju said.
“Over the years, I have watched him continuously choose his principles over comfort by challenging injustice and demanding accountability from those in power, in a country like Nigeria, where speaking up often comes at a high cost.”
He described Sowore’s courage as intentional and rooted in a genuine belief that the country can overcome its challenges through sustained civic engagement and reforms.
Adeyanju also acknowledged the numerous arrests, detentions and court cases Sowore has faced over the years, stressing that such sacrifices should not be taken for granted.
“The arrests, detentions, endless court cases, and personal risks he has endured are sacrifices I do not take for granted. I celebrate not just his years, but his resilience and his unwavering commitment to the common man and the downtrodden,” he added.
Sowore, a prominent activist, politician and publisher, has remained a vocal critic of government policies and a leading figure in various pro-democracy campaigns.
Adeyanju concluded by wishing him a happy birthday, noting that his journey serves as a reminder that meaningful reform is never easy but always worth pursuing.