The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu order the immediate and unconditional release of journalist and activist Omoyele Sowore, who was reportedly arrested in Abuja after attending Nnamdi Kanu’s trial at the Federal High Court.
Sowore’s Arrest Follows #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest
Sowore’s detention comes just days after the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest on October 20, where security operatives allegedly fired teargas at peaceful demonstrators and bystanders.
Reports indicate that Sowore narrowly escaped arrest during the protest, which demanded the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu. Several others, including Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, and his brother, Emmanuel Kanu, were detained during the demonstration.
However, on October 23, Sowore was apprehended at the court premises while attending Kanu’s ongoing trial. Witnesses said security operatives moved in shortly after he interacted with supporters outside the courtroom.
SERAP Condemns Arrest as Unlawful
In a statement released after the incident, SERAP condemned the arrest as “arbitrary” and a clear violation of human rights. The group urged the Tinubu administration to ensure Sowore’s and other detained protesters’ immediate release.
“The Tinubu administration must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Omoyele Sowore and other protesters reportedly arrested following a peaceful protest in Abuja.
No one should be detained simply for exercising their human rights,” SERAP stated.
The organization reminded the government of its obligations under the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which all guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
Public Outrage
News of Sowore’s arrest has triggered widespread condemnation on social media, with Nigerians demanding his release and accusing the government of silencing dissent. Others, however, have urged calm and called for due legal process to take its course.
