The Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja has explained the reason behind the arrest of activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, confirming that arrangements have been finalized to arraign him within 24 hours.
Sowore, who is also the publisher of Sahara Reporters, was arrested at the Federal High Court complex in Abuja shortly after appearing in solidarity with Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Police: Sowore Was Indicted by Detained Protesters
Addressing journalists on Wednesday, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, said Sowore’s arrest followed revelations from the thirteen individuals earlier detained during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest.
According to Hundeyin, the suspects — who have since been charged and remanded in prison — identified Sowore as the person who led them into a restricted zone in defiance of an existing court order banning protests around certain government institutions.
“You may ask why he was arrested. The reason is quite straightforward,” Hundeyin said.
“All thirteen suspects gave written statements, and they each consistently mentioned that one Omoyele Sowore led them into the restricted area, which violates the court’s directive.”
Police Cite Fairness and Due Process
The police spokesperson stressed that the arrest was made in the interest of fairness, saying it would have been unjust to prosecute the detained protesters while leaving out their alleged leader.
“It would be unfair to charge those individuals and exclude the person they all referred to as their leader. Sowore was arrested to ensure that justice takes its full course,” Hundeyin explained.
He added that Sowore’s detention would be brief, noting that the police intend to file formal charges and present him in court within 24 hours.
“Like the others, he won’t be in custody for long. If all goes as planned, his arraignment may even take place today,” he stated.
Background
Sowore’s arrest comes two days after security operatives dispersed protesters demanding Nnamdi Kanu’s release. The incident led to multiple arrests and heightened public criticism over the handling of peaceful demonstrations in the Federal Capital Territory.
As of press time, there has been no official comment from Sowore’s legal team regarding his arrest or the planned arraignment.
Related: No More Petrol Imports as Dangote Refinery Meets Local Demand — Oil Marketers
