Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore stirred fresh public conversation in Abuja after appearing at a church gathering linked to the growing campaign to preserve the public use of Jabi Lake Park.
At the event hosted by Pastor Sarah Omakwu, Sowore described himself as “born again” and “a prayer warrior,” a remark that quickly drew attention across social and political circles.
His appearance came amid rising debate over the future of Jabi Lake, where concerns have grown over redevelopment plans and public access to one of Abuja’s best-known recreational spaces. Religious leaders, civic groups and residents have increasingly voiced support for preserving the park as a public asset.
Speaking during the gathering, Sowore framed his presence as part of a broader civic cause rather than partisan politics. He said the issue touched on community values, public ownership and the need to protect spaces that serve ordinary residents.
The comments added a new dimension to the debate, especially because Sowore is widely known for activism centered on governance, civil rights and accountability. His declaration of being a prayer warrior introduced a more personal note that resonated strongly online.
The controversy around Jabi Lake intensified after Pastor Omakwu publicly appealed to Nyesom Wike to preserve the recreation area for public use. She argued that the space remains important for exercise, social interaction and community life in the capital.
In response, Wike maintained that government decisions on the redevelopment would not be driven by emotion, insisting that land administration must follow official policy and urban planning priorities.
Sowore’s remarks have now widened the conversation beyond urban planning, drawing attention to the relationship between faith, civic engagement and citizen participation in public policy debates.
For many observers, the moment was less about political positioning and more about a symbolic message: that defending public spaces can also become a moral and community-driven cause.
