The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed that human rights activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, was arrested for leading the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest into “restricted areas” in Abuja.
Sowore was detained on Thursday shortly after leaving the premises of the Federal High Court in the capital.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force spokesperson, said those apprehended during the protest violated a court order restricting movement in certain areas of the city.
Hundeyin noted that those previously arrested had identified Sowore as the leader of the demonstration, which prompted his arrest.
“Today, Omoyele Sowore was arrested by the Nigeria Police Force. You will ask, why was he arrested? It is very simple,” he said.
“The 13 people who were arrested previously all gave their statements. There was a constant in their statements.
“Every one of them mentioned that one Omoyele Sowore led them into the restricted areas in contravention of the court order. It would be unfair to charge some people to court and leave the person who led them to commit that; more like he is the leader.
“Like the others, he wouldn’t spend up to 24 hours with us. Once we have all the charges, he will be prosecuted. In fact, if everything goes right, our plan is to ensure that he goes to court today.”
On Monday, Sowore led protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who is facing terrorism charges.
During the protest, police fired teargas canisters at demonstrators and commuters, arresting several individuals, including Aloy Ejimakor, one of Kanu’s lawyers.
Ejimakor and 12 others were later charged with conspiracy, disobedience of a lawful order, incitement of public disturbance, and other offences under sections 152, 114, and 133 of the Penal Code Law. A magistrate court in Abuja ordered their remand.
‘Sowore Is Not a Criminal’
Reacting to the arrest, the Take It Back Movement, in a statement signed by its national coordinator, Sanyaolu Juwon, condemned Sowore’s detention, warning that it “will be met with an immediate, nationwide mass action.”
The group insisted that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and described Sowore as “a renowned human rights activist and a voice of conscience for millions of oppressed Nigerians who continue to suffer under a corrupt and tyrannical system.”
“The Tinubu-led regime must understand that this is not 1984, and Nigerians will not sit idly while their rights to dissent and protest are trampled upon.
“The right to peaceful protest is constitutionally guaranteed, and no regime, no matter how desperate, can take it away.
“Let it be clearly known: if Sowore is not released immediately and unconditionally, the Take It Back Movement, alongside progressive organizations across the country, will mobilize citizens for sustained protests and civil disobedience actions until he regains his freedom.
“We hold the Commissioner of Police, the Inspector General of Police, and the Tinubu regime fully responsible for the safety and well-being of Omoyele Sowore.”