A Nigerian constitutional lawyer, Festus Ogun, who previously dragged Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to court over allegations of being unfairly blocked on X (formerly Twitter), has now given a detailed update after an unexpected invitation to meet directly with the governor at the State House.
Recall that weeks earlier, Festus Ogun accused Governor Sanwo-Olu of deliberately blocking him on the social media platform in response to his firm and persistent criticisms of government policies, as well as his outspoken calls for accountability regarding the tragic October 2020 #EndSARS Lekki Tollgate massacre. The young lawyer argued that such an action amounted to an infringement on his fundamental human rights to freedom of speech and access to information, stressing that blocking a citizen for constructive criticism contradicts the spirit of democracy and good governance.
Angered by the move, Festus proceeded to file a lawsuit in court, demanding redress and emphasizing that no political leader should be above accountability in a democratic society. The case drew significant public attention, sparking debates across the country on whether political figures have the right to silence citizens’ voices on public platforms.
Festus meets Governor Sanwo-Olu in Marina
In a fresh update shared on X, Festus posted photos of himself with Governor Sanwo-Olu at the Lagos House, Marina, confirming that the governor had personally invited him for a private meeting to discuss the issue. He explained that the meeting was cordial and constructive, allowing both parties to exchange views without hostility. During the interaction, Sanwo-Olu reportedly clarified the reasons behind the earlier block and assured Festus that it was not a deliberate attempt to silence him permanently.
Following the dialogue, Festus confirmed that the governor had officially unblocked him on X. Sharing his reflections on the resolution, the lawyer wrote: “Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has now unblocked me on X (Twitter). I had a brief meeting with him yesterday at Lagos House Marina, on his personal invitation, to amicably resolve my complaint of human rights violations. While I appreciate the gesture, my stance remains the same: authorities must always be held accountable. Aluta continua!”
He went on to appreciate the presence of his legal partner, Desmond Tobe Oris, who stood by his side throughout the mediation process and provided support during the discussions with the governor.
Although the matter was settled without hostility, Festus made it clear that the settlement would not compromise his advocacy for justice, good governance, and transparency. He stressed that his activism is not targeted at individuals but at promoting democratic values and ensuring that public office holders remain accountable to the people they serve.
Mixed reactions from Nigerians online
The lawyer’s revelation about his meeting with Sanwo-Olu has stirred a wide range of comments online. While some Nigerians hailed his courage for challenging a sitting governor and eventually getting results, others expressed skepticism about the long-term outcome.
KikelomoSowore commented: “Well done. Honestly, he should even compensate you for the period he blocked you. Do you know how many official updates you missed? Like not knowing if the Third Mainland Bridge is still 3MB or if the state had to subscribe for more data bundles. 😅”
ChinnelJam47174 wrote: “I won’t even be surprised if you start singing his praises tomorrow. That’s how these things go …”
Opsylo_jay reacted: “Haters will obviously claim you have been bought. That’s how people always think when activists engage leaders directly.”
KingMaker_ii remarked: “If Nigeria truly worked, meetings like this would be normal. Citizens wouldn’t need lawsuits before leaders respond. Governance should be seamless and leaders more prudent.”
EniolaAdewuni added: “If you want change, you have to get up and pursue it. Many of us laughed at your lawsuit initially, but look at the results—it actually yielded fruit. Kudos to you!!”
The development has since continued to trend, with many Nigerians seeing it as a rare moment where activism, legal action, and dialogue combined to produce a peaceful resolution between a citizen and a sitting governor.