There is a time to speak, and a time to simply watch. For a while, I chose the latter. Not because I lacked words, but because I believed that silence could sometimes be a form of wisdom. I believed that the public would eventually discern between noise and substance. I believed that truth, no matter how delayed, would ultimately prevail.
But now, Omoyele Sowore has crossed a line.
In the face of deliberate misinformation, calculated attacks, and selective bitterness, silence is no longer a virtue—it becomes a license for slander. And that is why I must speak, not out of personal defense, but in response to the persistent dishonesty masquerading as activism.
Sowore has recently turned his energy towards Bauchi State, directing unwarranted attacks at its leadership—particularly Governor Bala Mohammed and his son, Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed. What began as a passing jab has snowballed into a relentless crusade fueled not by facts, but by vendetta.
It all began with a private video—a harmless, intimate moment between Shamsudeen and his wife during a birthday celebration, recorded in the privacy of their home. The video was never meant for public viewing. However, it was leaked, manipulated, and weaponized by one Dr. Ahmed, despite being cautioned to desist. But in our society, mockery sells. Dignity is ignored. And so the video spiraled into controversy.
Then came Sowore. Not as a voice of reason. Not as a defender of privacy. But as an amplifier of falsehoods. He latched onto the moment—not to foster dialogue or defend principles, but to provoke, distort, and vilify. He used Shamsudeen’s name not as a reference, but as ammunition in his broader campaign against the Governor, dragging an innocent man into a war he never signed up for.
Let’s be clear: this is not about justice. It’s not about accountability. It’s about clout.
Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed is not a politician. He does not hold public office. He is simply a private citizen who refuses to live in the shadow of his father’s achievements. Instead, he has committed himself to grassroots impact—supporting youth, empowering small businesses, and remaining present in communities often overlooked by Nigeria’s elite.
But for some, dignity is a threat. For those who thrive on outrage, such quiet service must be punished.
It is profoundly disappointing that Sowore, a man who once symbolized fearless advocacy, has reduced himself to an online instigator. He now plays judge, jury, and executioner—without facts, without balance, and without remorse. He crafts narratives with only one side in mind, and celebrates before truth has even had a chance to speak.
Bauchi State is not a playground for failed political experiments. It is not a launchpad for personal ambitions. It is a place where real governance is taking place. Governor Bala Mohammed remains focused on development, on institution-building, and on laying a legacy of lasting impact. He does not engage in online squabbles. He lets his work speak.
But when a man continually distorts facts, maligns characters, and undermines genuine efforts—just to remain relevant—there comes a time when truth must push back.
This is that time.
The people of Bauchi are not blind. They can distinguish between constructive criticism and calculated crusades. They know when someone is holding leaders accountable—and when someone is merely chasing attention.
That is why I initially paid Sowore no mind. I believed that his audience would one day ask the right questions: Where are the facts? Where is the balance? Where is the fairness?
Today, I write not to argue, but to remind. When your voice becomes a weapon, and your “truth” becomes your tool, you must carry the weight of responsibility. You must uphold the very integrity you demand from others.
Sowore has failed in that regard.
He has targeted a private citizen. He has smeared a government that is working. And he has masked personal bitterness as activism. But the people are watching. The people are wiser. And the people can decide.
In the end, the record will speak for itself.
Shamsudeen will continue his quiet service. Governor Bala Mohammed—Kaura—will continue to build. Bauchi will continue to rise.
And history—not hashtags—will remember who truly stood for progress.
Garba writes from Bauchi State, Nigeria.
