Police Explain Sowore’s Arrest Amid #FreeNnamdiKanu Demonstration in Abuja

Nigeria Police Force has provided clarification on the recent arrest of human rights activist and former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore. Authorities stated that Sowore was detained for allegedly defying a court order that prohibited the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed on Thursday that Sowore was apprehended at the Federal High Court in Abuja. He reportedly led the protest demanding the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.

According to Hundeyin, statements from 13 individuals previously arrested in connection with the demonstration indicated that Sowore guided them into areas where protests were legally restricted, in breach of the court order. Hundeyin emphasized that allowing the protesters to face charges without holding Sowore accountable would be unjust, prompting his arrest.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed that Sowore be arraigned immediately. Plans are underway to charge him as soon as the required legal procedures are completed.

This incident comes after several arrests tied to the #FreeNnamdiKanu protests earlier this week. Eight individuals were detained near the Transcorp Hilton, and five others were arrested close to the Ministry of Finance, all for contravening the court’s restrictions on demonstrations.