Protesters on Friday marched to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, demanding the immediate release of detained activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore.
Dressed predominantly in black and carrying the Nigerian national flag, the demonstrators chanted anti-government songs and accused the police of intimidation.
One protester, addressing journalists, rejected claims they had blocked the road.
“We are exercising our fundamental constitutional rights. We did not block any road. An Assistant Commissioner of Police is here to intimidate us — he even came with a dog to attack us. We are here within the ambit of the law, and let it be on record,” the protester said.
Sowore had arrived at the Force Headquarters on Wednesday after being invited over allegations of forgery and inciting disturbance.
He was reportedly detained the following day, sparking public outrage and renewed calls for his release.
The demonstration adds to mounting pressure on the police to explain the circumstances surrounding his detention.
