Omoyele Sowore Biography
Early Life and Education
Omoyele Yele Sowore was born on February 16, 1971, in Kiribo, Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. He comes from a large polygamous family, with sixteen siblings. At age 12, he learned to ride a motorcycle to help fish for his family before going to school, illustrating his early responsibilities. His ethnic background is the Apoi Ijaw community (part of the Ijaw nationality) in the riverine region of Ondo State.
He attended secondary school at Community High School, Kiribo and later Ofedepe High School, Okitipupa. He studied Geography and Regional Planning at University of Lagos (1989–1995), a period extended by two years after being expelled twice due to his student activism. He later obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Columbia University in New York.
Career & Activism
Sowore’s activism began in his student days. He served as President of the Student Union Government at the University of Lagos between 1992 and 1994, and he led major protests against military rule and corruption. He was actively involved in the pro-democracy movement during the 1990s in Nigeria.
In 2006, Sowore founded the independent, online news agency Sahara Reporters, based in New York. The agency focuses on exposing corruption, human rights abuses, and public-interest investigations in Nigeria and Africa more broadly.
He entered formal politics by founding the African Action Congress (AAC) in 2018, and ran as its presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2019 and 2023 general elections. His platform emphasises anti-corruption, youth empowerment, transparency and systemic reform.
Arrests & Legal Challenges
In August 2019, Sowore was arrested by the Nigerian government ahead of a planned nationwide protest called “#RevolutionNow”. He was charged with conspiracy to commit treason and other offences. His detentions sparked international outcry and highlighted issues of press freedom, state power, and civil-rights in Nigeria.
Personal Life
Sowore is married to Opeyemi Oluwole Sowore, a Nigerian-American businesswoman and activist. The couple reside for part of the time in New Jersey, United States. His personal narrative of activism, exile, and journalism continues to shape his public identity.
Legacy & Impact
Omoyele Sowore stands as one of Nigeria’s most prominent voices for press freedom, democratic reform, and citizen journalism. His career bridges activism, media creation, and electoral politics—all centred on holding power to account and uplifting youth participation in governance. His story continues to resonate with young Nigerians and activists across Africa who seek alternatives to entrenched political structures.
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