Police Rearrest Omoyele Sowore in Abuja Over Alleged Violation of Court Order
Prominent human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has been rearrested by the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja, just moments after being granted bail by the Kuje Magistrate Court.
According to reports, Sowore had appeared in court on charges related to a recent protest in support of the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu. The court had earlier granted him bail in the sum of ₦500,000 with certain conditions, which he reportedly met.
However, shortly after his release, operatives of the police moved in and rearrested him, citing a fresh allegation of disobeying a court order by leading protesters into a restricted area within the Federal Capital Territory.
Police spokespersons confirmed the arrest, stating that Sowore’s actions amounted to a breach of public peace and violation of existing directives restricting certain forms of public assembly in sensitive areas of Abuja.
Meanwhile, Sowore’s legal representatives have condemned the move, describing it as a flagrant disregard for the rule of law and an attempt to intimidate voices of dissent. They insist that their client’s activities were peaceful and within his constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly.
The activist, who is also the publisher of Sahara Reporters, has had multiple run-ins with security agencies over his activism and involvement in nationwide protests advocating for good governance and accountability.
As of the time of this report, Sowore remains in police custody, and there are indications that he may face fresh charges before another court in the coming days.