Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has unblocked human rights lawyer Festus Ogun on X (formerly Twitter) following a lawsuit filed against him. The move came after the governor invited Festus for a private meeting at the Lagos House, Marina, to clarify the situation.
Background: The Lawsuit Over #EndSARS Criticism
Weeks earlier, Festus Ogun had accused Sanwo-Olu of blocking him on X over his constructive criticisms of government policies and persistent calls for accountability regarding the October 2020 #EndSARS massacre.
Describing the act as a violation of his human rights, the lawyer filed a lawsuit against the governor, arguing that public officials cannot silence dissenting voices on platforms meant for civic engagement. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Meeting at Lagos House
Taking to his verified X handle, Festus shared photos from his meeting with the governor, describing it as amicable.
He revealed that Sanwo-Olu had unblocked him and provided clarifications on the circumstances behind the earlier restriction.
“Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has unblocked me on X (Twitter). I met briefly with him yesterday at Lagos House Marina, on his invitation, to amicably resolve my complaint of human rights violations. We will continue to hold authorities accountable, regardless. Aluta continua!”
Festus also appreciated his lawyer, Desmond Tobe Oris, who accompanied him to the mediation.
Festus: “Accountability Remains My Priority”
Despite the resolution, Festus stressed that his commitment to advocacy, justice, and transparency in governance remains unchanged. He maintained that the amicable settlement would not affect his watchdog role in ensuring leaders remain accountable to the people.
Mixed Reactions Online
The development has sparked diverse reactions among Nigerians:
@KikelomoSowore: “Well done. He should compensate you for the time he blocked you. You have missed many updates from state level 😂.”
@ChinnelJam47174: “I won’t be surprised if you start singing praises to him …”
@Opsylo_jay: “Haters will say you have been bought.”
@KingMaker_ii: “Wish Nigeria works, things would have been this seamless and our leaders more prudent.”
@EniolaAdewuni: “People laughed at his lawsuit but it has actually yielded fruit. Kudos!!”
With the unblocking now settled, the case highlights the growing influence of digital rights activism in Nigeria and the increasing pressure on public officials to engage transparently with citizens on social media.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has again displayed leadership by inviting a citizen that sued him over the alleged blocking on X. To the Governor, every Lagosian is his citizen and the government-citizen engagement is his mantra. He engages with the citizens at every available opportunity. Thanks to my friend, @mrfestusogun for equally showing some high level maturity and understanding, and willingness to continue to engage constructively for the development of our dear State. Governance is a collective responsibility.Gboyega Akosile
