The Nigeria Police Force has come under fire following the arrest and detention of human rights activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, who was taken into custody on Wednesday over allegations of forgery, cyberstalking, and other offences. The arrest has triggered widespread condemnation from civil society groups, political figures, and international organisations.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police described the detention as lawful and in line with Nigeria’s constitutional provisions. According to the Force, Sowore was arrested based on “credible and corroborated allegations” and was released within the constitutionally mandated 48-hour window, as stipulated in Section 35(4) of the 1999 Constitution.
“The suspect’s arrest and detention were carried out in full compliance with legal procedures and due process, respecting his rights throughout,” the statement read.
Police also denied claims that Sowore was tortured while in custody. Viral images had surfaced online showing the activist with a bandaged arm, raising concerns over his treatment. However, the police dismissed the claims, asserting that the bandage was already in Sowore’s possession when he reported to the Force Headquarters.
“The bandage was part of his personal effects prior to detention,” the statement said, adding that Sowore had refused medical attention offered by independent police medical teams on two separate occasions—August 7 and 8.
The Inspector-General of Police has reportedly ordered an internal inquiry into how Sowore had access to the bandage during his time in custody, especially after declining medical examinations. The Force emphasized its “zero-tolerance policy for torture” in line with the Anti-Torture Act of 2017 and international human rights standards.
Sowore, who was released on Friday evening, has since accused the police of assault and unlawful detention. In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he thanked supporters while slamming the police for what he described as an unjust arrest.
“I have been released from unjust, unwarranted, and unlawful detention,” he wrote. “The Nigeria Police Force and its illegal IGP have capitulated to the demands of the revolutionary movement. It is nothing to celebrate, but thank you for standing firm.”
In a live video following his release, Sowore further alleged that he was physically assaulted by officers during a forced attempt to move him to court. According to reports, a team of nine police officers led by a Chief Superintendent from the IGP Monitoring Unit stormed his cell early Thursday morning claiming they were transferring him for a court appearance.
This incident sparked protests in Abuja and Lagos, with demonstrators many dressed in black and waving Nigerian flags demanding Sowore’s immediate release. Chants against police brutality and government oppression filled the air outside the Force Headquarters.
Amnesty International also condemned the arrest, alleging that officers broke Sowore’s arm in the process of forcing him into a vehicle bound for an undisclosed location. The group called for all charges to be dropped, describing them as “bogus and politically motivated,” and criticised the authorities for denying Sowore access to legal representation.
Political leaders have joined in condemning the arrest. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the incident as a “shameful abuse of power” and accused the Inspector-General of Police of acting out of personal vendetta rather than a commitment to justice.
“Sowore’s only offence is speaking truth to power—his repeated arrests are an attack on every Nigerian who dares to speak up against injustice,” Atiku said in a statement.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, echoed the sentiment, calling the detention a “miscarriage of justice” and “a gross abuse of state authority.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) also weighed in, warning that the continued harassment of activists and dissenters signals a troubling descent into authoritarianism. NLC President Joe Ajaero described Sowore as a “moral compass” for the nation and urged authorities to halt actions that threaten democratic freedoms.
Sowore had voluntarily reported to police headquarters on Wednesday to honour an invitation regarding the allegations of forgery and inciting disturbance. However, within hours, news broke of his detention, igniting swift and widespread backlash.
As the controversy unfolds, the police maintain that their actions are rooted in legal authority and devoid of political bias, but critics argue that the incident is another example of how state institutions are being used to silence dissent.
