Demand for Immediate Release of Sowore: Nigerian Police Faced with Calls to Dismiss All Current Charges by SERAP
In a recent turn of events, prominent activist and former presidential aspirant, Omoyele Sowore, has been detained by the Nigerian authorities. The arrest followed Sowore's attendance at an invitation by the Inspector General of Police's Monitoring Unit, amidst allegations of forging a police document published online and cyberbullying.
The authorities claimed to have a court order for Sowore's detention, but his legal team disputed having seen it. Sowore was released shortly after the police explained the reasons for his detention, but he described it as unjust and unlawful, thanking supporters for their unity.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Sowore, stating that his detention constitutes arbitrary imprisonment. They also argue that it violates Nigeria's commitments under the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The Nigerian Labor Congress (NLC) has joined the call for Sowore's release, fearing a return to the days of dictatorship. Amnesty International has also condemned his detention as unlawful and politically motivated, while Peter Obi and Atiku have demanded his immediate release, stating that he is not a criminal and does not pose a flight risk.
Sowore's arrests are often linked to his vocal criticism of government policies and advocacy for political reform. Tensions rose as police allegedly moved Sowore secretly, and he reportedly suffered an arm injury while in custody, according to a lawyer.
SERAP's statement emphasizes that the Constitution and international human rights treaties prohibit arbitrary detention. They urge the Nigerian authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens, warning against repression of peaceful dissent.
As the situation unfolds, it is essential to remember the importance of upholding the principles of freedom of speech and the rule of law in a democratic society. The detention of Omoyele Sowore serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for these fundamental rights in Nigeria.
[1] The Cable, "Police detain Sowore over alleged refusal to make statement", 2021. [2] The Guardian, "Omoyele Sowore released from detention", 2021. [3] Premium Times, "Sowore's detention: Police claim court order, legal team disputes", 2021. [4] Amnesty International, "Nigeria: Release Omoyele Sowore immediately and unconditionally", 2021. [5] Sahara Reporters, "Sowore's detention: SERAP demands his release", 2021.
- The Nigerian authorities continue to face criticism for their handling of prominent activist Omoyele Sowore's detention, with concerns of arbitrary imprisonment and political motivation raised by various organizations, including SERAP.
- The recent development has sparked concerns about freedom of speech and the rule of law in Nigeria, as Sowore is known for his vocal criticism of government policies and advocacy for political reform.
- The Nigerian Labor Congress (NLC), Peter Obi, Atiku, and Amnesty International have all called for Sowore's immediate release, fearing a return to the days of dictatorship and the suppression of peaceful dissent.
- The Inspector General of Police's Monitoring Unit had invited Sowore, leading to his arrest on allegations of forging a police document and cyberbullying. However, Sowore's legal team disputes having seen the court order justifying his detention.
- The economy, politics, crime, and justice sectors of Nigeria have been under scrutiny as general news outlets report on Sowore's arrest, his alleged suffering of an arm injury while in custody, and the ongoing calls for his unconditional release.
