In a statement issued on Monday, PLAC's Executive Director, Clement Nwankwo, said the Federal High Court's decision in Abuja to revoke Sowore's bail and order his detention has sparked significant concerns about personal liberty, fair hearing, and the administration of justice in Nigeria.
Sowore was remanded following the revocation of his bail in an ongoing court case. The development has drawn criticism from civil society organisations and rights groups, which argue that the action could have far-reaching implications for democratic freedoms and the protection of civil liberties.
Reacting to the court's decision, PLAC acknowledged the judiciary's authority to enforce compliance with its orders and preserve discipline within court proceedings. However, the organisation stressed that such powers must always be exercised within constitutional limits.
"The exercise of judicial powers must remain consistent with the constitutional principles that protect personal liberty, guarantee fair hearing, and uphold the rule of law," the statement said.
According to PLAC, the 1999 Constitution guarantees every citizen the rights to personal liberty and fair hearing, irrespective of the allegations against them. It maintained that any decision capable of depriving a person of freedom should be taken only after careful consideration of all relevant facts and in strict observance of due process.
The organisation further argued that detention for alleged non-compliance with court processes should be employed only as a last resort and must be guided by the principles of necessity, proportionality, and fairness.
PLAC noted that public confidence in the judiciary is strengthened when court proceedings are transparent, predictable, and fully aligned with constitutional safeguards.
While refraining from commenting on the substantive issues before the court, the organisation emphasised that judicial decisions affecting personal liberty must meet the highest standards of fairness and accountability.
It added that adherence to these safeguards is critical not only for protecting individual rights but also for sustaining public trust in democratic institutions and the justice system.
Reaffirming its respect for the independence of the judiciary, PLAC noted that court decisions remain subject to review through established appellate processes. The organisation said it would continue to monitor developments in the case while remaining committed to the promotion of human rights, constitutionalism, good governance, and the rule of law in Nigeria.