Sowore Recounts Surviving Cult Violence During UNILAG Student Activism

Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has reflected on his days as a student at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), recounting what he described as his role in confronting cult violence on campus during the 1993–1994 academic session.

In a post shared on social media with a feature interview video, Sowore said the university was gripped by cult-related violence at the time, alleging that some university officials and security authorities were complicit in the crisis.

According to him, he and a few student leaders resolved to confront the violence despite the risks involved.

Sowore claimed that his decision came at a heavy personal cost, alleging that he was brutally beaten, injected with unknown substances, humiliated, and left at the brink of death.

He also claimed to have once wrestled a live grenade from a student who allegedly intended to detonate it on campus, saying he was prepared to sacrifice his life to save others.

The activist said the experiences shaped his understanding of leadership, describing it as a commitment to justice even when such efforts are dangerous or unappreciated by the people.

“My fight to liberate Nigeria did not begin today. It is a commitment I made decades ago, and one I have never and will never abandon,” Sowore wrote.

The remarks come as Sowore continues to position himself ahead of the 2027 general elections under the African Action Congress (AAC) while maintaining his advocacy for political reforms through the #RevolutionNow campaign.