Ebola: Sowore Questions FG’s Readiness, Warns Against Politicisation

Human rights activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has questioned the Federal Government’s preparedness to contain the reported Ebola outbreak in Nigeria, calling for transparency, professional expertise and a science-driven response.

Sowore raised the concerns in a statement shared on his social media platforms following the reported confirmation of a case of Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease involving a woman receiving treatment in Abuja.

The activist also cautioned against the possible politicisation of the public health emergency, warning that measures introduced to contain the disease must not be used to restrict civil liberties or undermine democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He expressed concern that the administration of President Bola Tinubu could exploit the situation for political purposes, although he did not provide evidence that the government had taken steps to restrict electoral participation.

“I cannot put anything beyond Tinubu and his political agenda,” Sowore said, while questioning the President’s commitment to a genuinely free and fair electoral process.

Beyond the political concerns, the AAC presidential candidate raised questions about Nigeria’s disease surveillance system and its coordination with other countries following reports concerning the patient’s travel history.

Sowore cited reports that Ugandan health authorities had clarified that the Nigerian patient transited through Uganda after visiting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo).

He questioned the reported delay in sharing relevant travel and medical information with Ugandan authorities, arguing that effective international cooperation was essential to containing the spread of infectious diseases.

“If these accounts are accurate, why has Nigeria not promptly provided the necessary information?” he asked.

The activist also faulted the reported appointment of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, to chair Nigeria’s Presidential Task Force on Ebola Preparedness, arguing that public health professionals should occupy leading positions in managing the response.

According to him, epidemiologists, infectious disease specialists and other qualified experts should play central roles in developing and implementing strategies to contain the outbreak.

Sowore, however, urged Nigerians not to panic, stressing that the situation required a coordinated, transparent and evidence-based response rather than speculation or political controversy.

He called on the authorities to strengthen contact tracing, ensure appropriate medical care for affected persons, protect frontline health workers and provide timely, accurate information to the public.

He further emphasised the need for independent scientific oversight and accountability in the management of the outbreak, insisting that public confidence would depend on the government’s ability to communicate clearly and respond effectively.

Sowore maintained that the protection of public health should remain the priority, warning that political considerations must not undermine efforts to safeguard lives.

“Public health must protect lives, not become an instrument of political control,” he said.