At a time when Nigeria faces deep political, social, and security challenges, voices of activism have become more important than ever. Rock Yusuf is one such voice, known for his consistent advocacy for democracy, accountability, and human rights.
In this Part One one-on-one conversation with Irodili, Rock Yusuf shares his views on Omoyele Sowore’s activism, Nigeria’s political leadership, insecurity, freedom of speech, and the role of social media activism. He also reflects on unity, diversity, and the responsibilities that come with speaking truth to power.
This conversation offers a straightforward look at Nigeria’s realities today, through the lens of an activist committed to change and justice.
Part Two will continue with a proper investigation into Nigeria’s future and take a closer look at Fulani bandits and terrorism, offering deeper insights and analysis.
CONVERSATIONS:
Irodili: You’ve publicly supported Omoyele Sowore for years. What specific moment or event made you fully commit to his activism, and how has your view of him changed or not over time?
Rock Yusuf: My commitment to Sowore’s activism stems from his unwavering dedication to democratic principles and human rights. His courage in challenging the Nigerian government, even in the face of persecution, deeply resonates with my values. Over time, my view of him has remained consistent, he has continued to demonstrate integrity, resilience, and a refusal to compromise on justice.
Irodili: Sowore leads the African Action Congress (AAC). Based on Nigeria’s current political landscape and his record, including the government’s legal actions against him, do you genuinely think he has a real shot at the presidency? Why?
Rock Yusuf: While predicting electoral outcomes in Nigeria is difficult, Sowore and the AAC have garnered significant grassroots support. His long-standing activism and willingness to challenge entrenched power structures appeal to many disaffected Nigerians seeking real change. Whether or not he wins, his candidacy continues to shift political conversations.
Irodili: You frequently criticise political figures like Reno Omokri, Nyesom Wike, and President Tinubu on social media. When you call them out, how do you personally determine that the issue is genuine wrongdoing and not just political bias?
Rock Yusuf: I rely strictly on verifiable evidence and public records. My goal is not personal attacks but accountability. Leaders must be questioned when their actions undermine good governance, democracy, or human rights.
Irodili: Influencers like VeryDarkMan (Martins Vincent Otse) also mobilise online activism. Some people view VeryDarkMan as inconsistent or overly dramatic in his rhetoric. Do you see similarities or differences between his style and yours? What’s your honest view of his impact?
Rock Yusuf: Our styles differ. I focus more on government actions and inactions, rather than private citizens, because many societal issues reflect governance failure. That said, VeryDarkMan’s activism has undeniably raised awareness on important issues. While his approach attracts criticism, his impact cannot be ignored.
Irodili: You often talk about insecurity and banditry. Nigeria has both criminal gangs and ideological insurgents like Boko Haram, which you see as a symptom versus a cause of the nation’s problems, and why?
Rock Yusuf: Insecurity is complex. Groups like Boko Haram are symptoms rather than the root cause. Economic neglect, inequality, political interests, and lack of access to education and opportunities are the deeper drivers. Addressing these root causes is essential.
Irodili: Some analysts claim banditry and terrorism are fuelled by political interests or economic neglect of northern regions, while others point to external influences. What evidence or experience informs your view of who is funding or enabling these groups?
Rock Yusuf: While external influences may exist, domestic factors are far more significant, corruption, poverty, weak institutions, and poor governance play the largest roles in sustaining insecurity.
Irodili: The Federal Government has charged Sowore under cybercrime and defamation laws for calling President Tinubu a “criminal, claims originating from posts about Tinubu’s statements abroad. What do you think this says about freedom of speech versus national security in Nigeria today?
Rock Yusuf: They raise serious concerns. Freedom of expression is fundamental in a democracy. National security should never be used as a pretext to suppress dissent or silence critics.
Irodili: Critics argue that social media activists sometimes stir public tension rather than promote constructive dialogue. How do you balance outspoken criticism with responsibility, especially when posts can lead to legal action or public unrest?
Rock Yusuf: I remain mindful of the impact of my words. I will always speak truth to power, but I also prioritize constructive dialogue and avoid rhetoric that could incite violence.
Irodili: Some Nigerians see political protest and activism as necessary; others see it as causing instability. In your own words, what real change have activists achieved through protests or online pressure in the last two years that governments couldn’t accomplish?
Rock Yusuf: Activism has forced accountability, exposed abuses, and protected human rights. Protests and online pressure have helped release detainees and created a more informed and engaged citizenry, outcomes governments often resisted until pressured.
Irodili: Regarding racial and religious identity: you’ve shown respect and positivity toward Igbo communities though many narratives frame Muslims and Christians as divided. How has your personal journey shaped this perspective?
Rock Yusuf: My experiences have taught me that diversity is a strength. I believe in celebrating differences while working toward an inclusive and equitable society for all Nigerians.
Irodili: There are strong debates about regional autonomy, including Biafra agitation and leaders like Nnamdi Kanu. Do you think the focus should be on national reform within Nigeria or supporting separatist movements? Explain your reasoning.
Rock Yusuf: National reform is essential, but I understand the frustrations driving separatist movements. I advocate for inclusive, decentralized governance that addresses regional concerns without fragmenting the nation.
Irodili: Looking at how Nigeria handles public dissent, such as the DSS demanding removal of anti-government posts from platforms like X and Facebook, do you think the government is using legal tools to protect the state or to silence criticism? Why?
Rock Yusuf: Too often, legal tools are used to silence dissent rather than protect national security. This approach undermines democracy and human rights.
Irodili: Some social media followers claim Western nations and foreign entities influence Nigerian insecurity for economic gain. Do you believe foreign actors play a significant role in Nigeria’s struggles (economically or politically)? Why, and what evidence supports that view?
Rock Yusuf: Foreign actors may play a role, but domestic issues, corruption, poor governance, and lack of accountability, are far more pressing and damaging.
Irodili: You speak about accountability and justice often. Can you share a specific moment when your activism directly led to action or accountability, whether legal, political, or social?
Rock Yusuf: Yes. There have been instances where my advocacy contributed to securing the release of detained activists, proving that sustained pressure can lead to real outcomes.
Irodili: if a global audience were to read one thing about where Nigeria stands today, politically, socially, and economically, what single message would you want them to take away from your activism?
Rock Yusuf: Nigerians are resilient and determined. Despite political, social, and economic challenges, we are a nation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and activists working tirelessly toward a more just and equitable future.
Summary:
Part Two will continue with a proper investigation into Nigeria’s future and take a closer look at Fulani bandits and terrorism, offering deeper insights and analysis.
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