The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has defended the arrest of activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, explaining that the action was carried out within the confines of the law and in line with national security considerations.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, was reportedly apprehended by police operatives on Thursday at the premises of a Federal High Court in Abuja, where he had gone to attend a hearing. The incident sparked outrage among rights groups and social media users who condemned what they described as a continued clampdown on dissenting voices.
Reacting to the backlash, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that Sowore’s arrest followed a valid warrant issued by a competent court of law. He added that the police had acted professionally and with restraint during the process.
> “The arrest of Mr. Omoyele Sowore was not politically motivated as being speculated. It was carried out based on a court order related to ongoing investigations into inciting statements and actions capable of disrupting public peace,” Hundeyin said.
He further noted that the police remain committed to protecting citizens’ rights while ensuring that no individual, regardless of status, is above the law.
However, Sowore’s legal team has described the arrest as an act of intimidation, accusing the authorities of targeting him for his activism and criticism of government policies. They have vowed to challenge the police action in court.
Civil society organisations and pro-democracy groups have since called for Sowore’s immediate release, urging the federal government to respect freedom of expression and the rule of law.
As of the time of this report, the activist remains in police custody, while investigations into the alleged offences are said to be ongoing.
Nigeria Police Defends Arrest of Activist Omoyele Sowore, Says Action Was Lawful
