Police Defend Continued Detention of Omoyele Sowore Amid Nationwide Protests

Abuja, Nigeria— The Nigeria Police Force has justified the ongoing detention of human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, stating that his refusal to provide a statement during interrogation necessitates his continued custody.

Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle, addressed protesters and journalists at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Friday. He explained that Sowore’s arrest followed two petitions currently under investigation—one alleging forgery of a police document Sowore had published online, and another concerning cyberbullying. Both petitions were presented to Sowore in the presence of his lawyers, but he declined to make a formal statement, which is a duty under Nigerian law when accused of an offense. CP Shogunle emphasized the police’s adherence to legal procedures and rejected allegations of unlawful detention.

Meanwhile, Sowore’s supporters have held protests in Lagos, Abuja, Osun, and Oyo States, demanding his immediate release. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) condemned what it described as Sowore’s repeated arrests and prolonged detention, expressing alarm over reports that Sowore sustained injuries during his latest detention. NLC President Joe Ajaero called for any legal matters involving Sowore to be addressed through the court system rather than harassment by security forces.

Further reports disclosed that Sowore was forcibly relocated from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) early Thursday morning, during which he allegedly suffered a broken hand from police officers. Human rights groups including Amnesty International condemned the violent treatment and called for his immediate medical attention and unconditional release. Sowore reportedly refused medical care from police staff, insisting on treatment solely from his personal doctor.

The police arranged a media visit to demonstrate Sowore’s treatment conditions, but the event ended abruptly after Sowore criticized the police and demanded the removal of the Inspector-General of Police. The situation continues to fuel nationwide calls for his release and concerns about human rights abuses related to his detention.

By Taiwo Olatinwo | August 8, 2025