Why we arrested Sowore in Court – Police

The Nigeria Police Force has explained that the arrest of activist and politician Omoyele Sowore was carried out to ensure fairness in prosecuting those involved in Monday’s protest in Abuja.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin said Sowore was taken into custody because he allegedly led protesters into a restricted area during a demonstration in support of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Hundeyin stated that the police acted to ensure justice was applied evenly. “If we move from there to charge some people to court and leave the person who led them to commit that act, more like their leader—the elite protester who told them and took them into the restricted area—that would not be fair. In the spirit of fair play and to ensure that justice is served, Omoyele Sowore was arrested today,” he said.

He added that Sowore would not be held longer than the law permits and would be arraigned without delay. “Like the others, he wouldn’t spend time with us. He wouldn’t spend up to 24 hours with us. Once we wrap up the charges, he’s going to be prosecuted. If everything goes right, our plan is to ensure that he’s prosecuted today,” Hundeyin said.

Sowore was arrested on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja shortly after attending proceedings to show solidarity with Kanu. The activist has been a vocal advocate for Kanu’s release and had led Monday’s protest in Abuja demanding his freedom.