Human rights activist and #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign convener, Omoyele Sowore, has paid a visit to the 13 protesters detained after Monday’s peaceful rally demanding the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore visited the detainees, including Kanu’s lawyer, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, his brother Emmanuel Kanu, and other activists, at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
Peaceful Protest Turned Chaotic
The demonstration, held on Monday, October 20, aimed to highlight the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu despite several court rulings ordering his release. However, the protest was forcefully disrupted by security operatives, who reportedly used tear gas to disperse the crowd and arrested multiple participants.
Those arrested were later transferred to Kuje Prison, among them Ejimakor, Emmanuel Kanu, and several other protesters.
Detainees Remain Resolute Despite Harsh Treatment
After visiting them on Tuesday, October 22, Sowore shared an update via his X (formerly Twitter) account, assuring that the protesters remain steadfast despite experiencing police brutality.
He wrote:
“We had a productive meeting today with Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, Barrister @AloyEjimakor, his brother Emmanuel Kanu, Barr. Wisdom Okere, and 10 others who were arrested and brutalised by the Nigeria Police Force for participating in a peaceful #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest at Kuje Prison.”
Sowore noted that although the detainees were physically assaulted, their morale remains high as they continue to advocate for justice and freedom.
Sowore Slams Police Over Brutality
The activist condemned the actions of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, alleging that officers further attacked the protesters after the rally ended by firing tear gas within their premises before taking them to the “notorious SARS Abattoir.”
Describing the act as “disgraceful and unacceptable,” Sowore demanded accountability and called for the removal of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over what he termed “irresponsible leadership.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to the ongoing campaign for Nnamdi Kanu’s release and the broader fight for human rights and justice in Nigeria.