RismadarVoice Reporters
October 12, 2026
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has criticised a colloquium organised in honour of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, questioning the achievements and contributions that justified the event.
Sowore, in a post on X, expressed concern over the gathering of prominent personalities and the media attention given to the occasion, describing it as a reflection of what he considered excessive admiration for individuals connected to political power.
He questioned whether the recognition was based on Seyi Tinubu’s personal accomplishments, contributions to society or his relationship with the president.
“What exactly has Seyi Tinubu contributed to Nigerian society to warrant this elaborate colloquium, attended by so many ‘prominent personalities’ and broadcast across major television stations?” Sowore asked.
The activist argued that public recognition should be based on demonstrable achievements, service and contributions rather than family connections or political influence.
He further questioned whether the event reflected merit or the privileges associated with being a member of the president’s family.
Sowore drew comparisons with previous instances in Nigeria’s political history when individuals associated with influential officeholders attracted considerable public attention.
Referring to marriages involving members of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s family and serving governors, he argued that public interest in politically connected individuals often changes when their relatives leave positions of authority.
According to him, the attention surrounding the colloquium illustrated what he described as a recurring culture of political sycophancy.
Sowore also criticised the timing of the event, citing the economic and security challenges confronting Nigerians.
He pointed to unemployment, rising living costs, hunger and insecurity, arguing that national attention should focus more on addressing the difficulties experienced by ordinary citizens.
The activist blamed the Tinubu administration’s policies for worsening economic hardship, maintaining that public discourse should prioritise accountability and the government’s performance.
He described the occasion as a “sad day”, reiterating his opposition to what he considers the celebration of political connections over measurable contributions to national development.
Sowore’s remarks represent his criticism of the event and the political culture surrounding it. The claims do not, by themselves, establish the purpose of the colloquium or the extent of Seyi Tinubu’s contributions to society.
