Opinion: Why the DSS is Right to Keep a Watch on Sowore

By Sunday Oladapo

In every democracy, there is a thin line between freedom of expression and actions that could undermine national security. While citizens have the right to criticize government policies and leaders, those rights do not extend to making statements or taking actions that threaten public order. This is where the Department of State Services (DSS) comes in, and why its firm stance against Omoyele Sowore is not only justified but necessary.

Sowore has over the years styled himself as an activist and opposition figure. However, his approach has often gone beyond peaceful advocacy into rhetoric that can be perceived as destabilizing. His call for a “revolution” some years back is a clear example — in a country already grappling with economic hardship, security challenges, and social tension, such language can easily incite unrest and violence. A responsible security agency cannot fold its arms and watch inflammatory remarks spread unchecked.

The DSS, by its mandate, is tasked with protecting Nigeria’s internal security, ensuring that actions or utterances capable of sparking instability are curtailed before they snowball into chaos. Countries across the world, including advanced democracies, take similar steps when individuals or groups cross the line from dissent to incitement. Nigeria cannot be different if it hopes to remain stable.

Some argue that monitoring Sowore or restricting his activities amounts to silencing dissent. That is not true. Sowore still maintains his platforms, speaks openly, and enjoys media coverage. What the DSS seeks to prevent are statements or actions that could fuel anarchy under the guise of activism. Freedom without responsibility is dangerous, and the state has a duty to ensure that national security is not sacrificed on the altar of unchecked speech.

In the end, security agencies are not perfect, and they must always act within the law. But Nigerians must also recognize that democracy cannot thrive in a climate of constant agitation and threats of revolution. The DSS deserves commendation for standing firm in the face of deliberate provocation, safeguarding the country’s stability, and ensuring that political opposition remains constructive, not destructive.

Sunday Oladapo is a Media Executive, writes from Abuja