Former Bayelsa State Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Steve Azaiki, has reflected on an unexpected meeting with activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, describing the encounter as one that brought back fond memories of the late human rights icon, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN.
In a statement issued after returning to Nigeria from a short trip abroad, Azaiki said he unexpectedly met Sowore upon his arrival and the two shared a warm conversation about his background, including his pride in his Ijaw heritage and his commitment to the broader Nigerian identity.
According to Azaiki, the meeting reminded him of Fawehinmi, whose scholarship programme transformed the lives of many young Nigerians, including himself.
He recalled benefiting from the late legal icon’s scholarship as a secondary school student in the 1980s, noting that the gesture was more than financial assistance, but a demonstration of Fawehinmi’s unwavering belief in education as a tool for justice and national transformation.
Azaiki lamented that Nigeria misses the late activist now more than ever, describing him as a fearless defender of the oppressed who stood firmly against military dictatorship and dedicated his legal career to the pursuit of justice despite repeated arrests, detention, harassment and intimidation.
“History owes him a debt of gratitude, and so do generations of Nigerians whose lives he touched,” he said, adding that Fawehinmi’s sacrifices should never be forgotten.
Drawing a parallel between Fawehinmi and Sowore, Azaiki said the activist has also chosen the demanding path of speaking out on governance, accountability and democratic ideals.
He acknowledged that Sowore’s activism has attracted both widespread admiration and strong criticism, noting that such reactions often accompany individuals who consistently challenge the status quo.
Reflecting on their brief interaction, Azaiki said he encountered a side of Sowore that differed from the image often portrayed in public discourse.
He described the activist as calm, approachable and humble, with determined eyes that reflected unwavering conviction, yet possessing a warm smile and an easy laugh.
According to him, Sowore’s quiet intensity suggested there was much more to his personality than the image of a relentless activist.
Azaiki said he was inspired enough by the encounter to request a photograph with Sowore, who responded with a hearty laugh.
He concluded that unexpected encounters often remind people that beyond political disagreements and public perceptions are individuals shaped by conviction, personal experiences and a steadfast commitment to the causes they believe in.
