By Gloria Drealomalicha
Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has urged the Federal Government to apply the same stringent measures used against kidnappers to politicians and public officials accused of looting public funds.
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, Sowore argued that corruption remains one of the most damaging crimes in Nigeria, depriving citizens of essential services and opportunities needed for a better quality of life.
He said that if governments consider it appropriate to demolish properties connected to criminal activities, the same principle should apply to luxury homes and other assets allegedly acquired through stolen public funds.
According to Sowore, the destruction of buildings should not be limited to kidnappers’ hideouts. He maintained that corruption effectively “kidnaps” critical sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure and employment, while also robbing millions of Nigerians of their future.
The activist further argued that public officials and influential individuals who accumulate wealth through corrupt practices should face similar consequences, including the demolition of properties acquired with illicit proceeds.
Sowore’s comments followed the demolition of a building in Lako Community, Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State, which authorities alleged was used by kidnappers.
The property was reportedly linked to the abduction of Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, sister of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons.
The Oyo State Government ordered the demolition less than 48 hours after security operatives successfully rescued the victims. State authorities said the action underscored the government’s zero-tolerance approach to kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Reacting to the development, Sowore insisted that the fight against crime should be pursued without selective enforcement, stressing that those who enrich themselves through corruption inflict lasting damage on society and should be held equally accountable.
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