Sowore Calls for Equal Punishment, Seeks Demolition of Looted Assets

Activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, has called on the federal government to apply the same strict measures used in dealing with kidnappers' hideouts to the luxurious properties of politicians and public officials accused of embezzling public funds. According to Sowore, the act of looting the public treasury is a severe form of kidnapping that deprives millions of Nigerians of essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He made this statement on his social media handle, arguing that if the government believes in destroying properties used for or acquired through criminal activities, then the same principle should be applied to all offenders, including public officials who use looted funds to build mansions and acquire vast assets. Sowore's statement was in response to the Oyo State Government's recent demolition of a building in Ibadan, which was allegedly used as a hideout by kidnappers. The structure was demolished less than 48 hours after the victims were rescued by security operatives. The state government described the action as part of its zero-tolerance stance against criminality. Sowore argued that public treasury looting is a form of kidnapping that 'kidnaps healthcare, education, jobs, infrastructure, and the future of millions of Nigerians.' He emphasized that public officials and other powerful individuals who steal public funds to build mansions and acquire vast assets should have their properties demolished. The activist's remarks highlight the need for equal punishment for all offenders, regardless of their status or position in society.