Tinubu: "I'm Not Going to Jail as a Criminal. I'm Going to Jail Because of My Convictions" - Sowore

Omoyele Sowore has declared that he is not afraid of imprisonment as he continues to defend comments he made about President Bola Tinubu in an ongoing defamation case.

Speaking during an interview, Sowore said he remains committed to his position despite legal proceedings. 

He also explained why he chose to represent himself temporarily in court after his legal team withdrew from active participation in the matter.

According to official YouTube channel of Channels on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Sowore alleged that tensions arose during the cross examination of the prosecution’s sole witness, a DSS officer.

According to him, questions remain over the handling of substantial financial resources during the former NNPCL chief executive’s time in office.

He maintained that public officials entrusted with managing national assets must be prepared to account for their actions whenever concerns are raised regarding transparency and financial management.

The senator further accused Kyari of failing to adequately explain what he described as the alleged mismanagement of trillions of naira during his tenure.

He insisted that any investigation into the matter should be pursued vigorously and without delay.

According to Oshiomhole, institutions responsible for oversight have a duty to ensure that all allegations involving public funds are properly examined in the interest of accountability and good governance.

Speaking during the proceedings, Oshiomhole urged the relevant Senate committee to take immediate action by exercising the powers available to it under the law.

He stated that lawmakers should not hesitate to use constitutional mechanisms designed to compel appearances and obtain explanations from individuals whose conduct is under review.

The senator stressed that the committee must demonstrate determination in carrying out its oversight responsibilities.

He further stated that the committee should have the courage to issue a warrant of arrest immediately rather than postponing action.

According to him, Kyari should be required to answer questions regarding his stewardship at the NNPCL and provide explanations concerning allegations linked to his administration.

Oshiomhole maintained that accountability is essential for strengthening public confidence in government institutions and ensuring proper management of national resources.

He said, “Mr. Chairman, this committee must have the courage and the will to deploy its powers as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and issue a warrant, not tomorrow but today, and bring Mele Kyari. 

Dead or alive, in law, even if he is dead, we want to see the body and say, ‘Here lies a man who died without accounting for his alleged crimes running into trillions of naira.'”