My Expulsion From UNILAG Sealed My Lifelong Commitment To Activism – Sowore

By Opeyemi Adelakun

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has said his expulsion from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in 1992 marked the defining moment that cemented his lifelong commitment to activism and the struggle for justice in Nigeria.

Speaking during an interview with Starnewsng, Sowore reflected on his years as a student leader, saying his involvement in pro-democracy campaigns and student union activities convinced him that his life’s mission would be to challenge injustice and oppression.

According to him, although many student activists eventually leave public advocacy to pursue careers and family life, his own experience took a different path after his expulsion from the university.

“But I think as of 1992, when I was first expelled from the university, I knew that my path towards the struggle for justice in Nigerian society was clear,” Sowore said.

He added that from that point onward, he remained committed to activism regardless of where he found himself.

Sowore recounted participating in nationwide protests against military rule while studying at UNILAG, describing the period as one that shaped his political consciousness.

He said student leaders at the time fought for academic freedom, improved welfare for students, better hostel conditions, affordable food, healthcare services and resistance against cultism on campus.

The activist also recalled leading protests against the military administration of former Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, saying the struggle was aimed at restoring democratic governance in Nigeria.

Reflecting on the consequences of student activism, Sowore said those who actively challenged those in power often became permanent targets of the political establishment.

According to him, once a student’s name becomes associated with activism, security agencies and political authorities continue to monitor and confront such individuals long after graduation.

He maintained that despite arrests, detention and other forms of intimidation over the years, he has remained steadfast in his advocacy for justice, accountability and democratic governance.

Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and chairman of the African Action Congress (AAC), has been at the forefront of several protests and campaigns against successive governments, maintaining that activism remains essential to holding leaders accountable.