August 25, 2025
Sowore and IGP

Atiku, Obi, NLC Demand Immediate Release Of Sowore, Slam Police Over Detention

 

The arrest and continued detention of human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, by the Nigerian Police has sparked widespread condemnation from prominent Nigerians and civil society organizations.

Critics argue that the situation reflects negatively on Nigeria’s human rights record and undermines constitutional freedoms.

On Wednesday, Sowore voluntarily appeared at the Nigeria Police Force headquarters in Abuja in response to a summons from the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit, reportedly based on a petition. However, instead of being questioned and released, he was taken into custody and remained detained as of Thursday.

While in detention, Sowore alleged that he was physically assaulted by police officers, his arm broken and chemical agents sprayed on him. These claims have intensified public outcry, with many viewing the incident as a blatant abuse of power.

Sowore has been embroiled in a series of confrontations with the police over various allegations, including criticism of the IGP’s tenure extension, which he described as unconstitutional; advocacy for improved welfare of retired police officers, which reportedly drew ire from senior officials; persistent public commentary on corruption, injustice, and poor governance, which some believe has made him a target of political retaliation.

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Reacting to the arrest and detention, Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, described the arrest and alleged assault as “shameful” and “unlawful.”

He accused the IGP of using the police to settle personal scores, emphasizing that no officer should act as both complainant and enforcer.

Atiku called the incident an attack on every Nigerian who dares to speak truth to power.

In his own reaction Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, criticized the police for detaining a citizen who voluntarily honored an invitation.

He urged authorities to either charge Sowore formally or release him, warning that failure to do so would erode public trust in law enforcement.

Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the repeated arrests and described Sowore as a “moral compass.” In a statement by its National President Joe Ajaero,  the union warned that arbitrary detentions threaten the safety of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens.

Ajaero demanded Sowore’s immediate and unconditional release and called for respect for constitutional rights such as free speech and peaceful assembly.

The case has reignited debates about the rule of law, freedom of expression, and the politicisation of law enforcement in Nigeria.

Civil society groups warned that the government’s actions risk returning the country to an era of repression and fear, where dissent is punished and democratic norms are disregarded.

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