The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the recent arrest and ongoing detention of journalist and activist Omoyele Sowore by the Nigerian Police Force. Obi labeled the action a “miscarriage of justice and an abuse of state power,” calling it deeply troubling for the country’s commitment to fairness and due process.
In a statement released on Thursday, Obi expressed his “deep disturbance” at Sowore’s arrest, which occurred shortly after he voluntarily responded to an invitation from the Nigerian Police. At the time of the statement, no clear or credible charges had been presented against Sowore, raising concerns over the motives behind his detention.
Obi emphasized that “his arrest, particularly under the circumstances where he voluntarily presented himself to law enforcement, should be condemned by anyone who values justice and due process.” He added that there appeared to be no pressing reason for such an aggressive approach, stating, “No urgency or criminal flight risk warranted such high-handed treatment.”
The former governor of Anambra State also raised significant legal and moral concerns, asserting that detaining a citizen who voluntarily cooperated with authorities, without clear and lawful charges being made public, not only represents a miscarriage of justice but is an outright abuse of state power. Obi cited the words of philosopher Plato, noting, “Justice in the life and conduct of the State is possible only as it first resides in the hearts and souls of the citizens. When those entrusted with power act unjustly, they poison not only the legal order but the moral conscience of the nation.”
Obi called on the authorities to act in accordance with the law, urging the Nigerian Police to either release Sowore immediately or formally charge him in line with due process. “Anything short of this would further erode public trust in our law enforcement institutions,” he added.
In conclusion, Obi reiterated the importance of upholding the rule of law for all Nigerians, regardless of political ideology, background, or affiliations. “It is our collective duty to ensure that the rule of law is applied equally to all citizens,” he stated.
