Omoyele “Yele” Sowore is a prominent Nigerian human rights activist, citizen reporter, writer, lecturer, and pro-democracy campaigner. He is best known as the founder of the online news agency Sahara Reporters. Sowore has been actively involved in advocating for human rights, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria. He has also been a presidential candidate in the Nigerian general elections.
Early Life and Education
Sowore was born on February 16, 1971, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, specifically in Ese-Odo, Ondo State. He grew up in a polygamous home with sixteen siblings. From a young age, Sowore developed a passion for media and activism, which was fueled by the military rule in Nigeria. He studied Geography and Planning at the University of Lagos and was actively involved in anti-cultism and anti-corruption advocacy as the President of the University of Lagos Student Union Government. Sowore later pursued a master’s degree in Public Administration from Columbia University.
Omoyele Sowore Career and Activism
Sowore’s activism began in 1989 when he participated in student demonstrations against the conditions of an International Monetary Fund loan. He led protests against the Nigerian government in 1992, which resulted in the killing of seven protesters and his subsequent arrest and torture. Sowore has been involved in various movements and demands for democratic governance and human rights in Nigeria.
Sahara Reporters
In 2006, Sowore founded Sahara Reporters in New York City as a platform to combat corruption and expose wrong government practices in Nigeria. Sahara Reporters is known for its fearless journalism and has received support from organizations like the Ford Foundation and Omidyar Foundation. The platform operates independently and does not accept advertisements or financial support from the Nigerian government.
Arrests and Controversies
Sowore has faced numerous arrests and controversies throughout his career. He was arrested by the Nigerian State Security Service in 2019 for alleged treason after calling for a protest called “RevolutionNow.” He was also assaulted during protests in Abuja in 2021. Sowore’s activism and outspoken nature have made him a target for political enemies and have led to threats on his life.
Omoyele Sowore Personal Life
Sowore is married to Opeyemi Sowore, and they have kept their family life away from the public eye. They have been residents of Haworth, New Jersey. In September 2021, Sowore’s younger brother was tragically shot dead by herdsmen or kidnappers in Edo state.
