Human rights activist and Sahara Reporters founder, Omoyele Sowore, was reportedly arrested by police officers shortly after meeting with detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The incident has sparked national outrage and renewed debate over freedom of expression and political intimidation in Nigeria.
How the Arrest Happened
According to eyewitness reports, Sowore had attended Nnamdi Kanu's court session on Thursday, October 23 2025, to show solidarity with the separatist leader. Moments after the hearing ended, police operatives intercepted him outside the court premises. Videos circulating online show the activist questioning the officers as they surrounded him before he was forced into a waiting police vehicle.
Despite Sowore's repeated requests for clarification, the arresting officers allegedly refused to state the reason for his detention or present a warrant. Onlookers claimed the scene caused tension as supporters gathered, demanding his immediate release.
Sowore's History of Political Confrontation
Omoyele Sowore is no stranger to political arrest. As a pro-democracy campaigner and publisher of Sahara Reporters, he has faced multiple detentions over his criticism of government policies and advocacy for social reform. His 2019 “RevolutionNow” protest led to several months of detention by the Department of State Services (DSS), making him a recurring target of security agencies.
His latest arrest came only minutes after a brief exchange with Nnamdi Kanu's legal representatives. Many Nigerians have described the act as “a show of force” meant to discourage public figures from openly supporting the IPOB leader, whose case remains one of the most sensitive political issues in the country.
Legal and Political Reactions
Following the arrest, several activists and civic organisations condemned the police action, labelling it an abuse of power and an infringement on Sowore's constitutional rights.
Barrister Abdul Mahmud, a prominent human rights lawyer, described the arrest as “a blatant attempt to criminalize solidarity.” He added that attending a court session is not a crime under Nigerian law.
Similarly, civic groups such as Amnesty International Nigeria and the Civil Society Consortium for Democracy (CSCD) have called for his immediate release, urging the Inspector-General of Police to provide a public explanation for the arrest.
Government officials have yet to issue an official statement, though police sources claim the arrest was linked to “ongoing investigations.”
Broader Implications
This latest development has reignited conversations around freedom of movement, judicial transparency, and the shrinking civic space in Nigeria. Critics argue that such arrests send a chilling message to journalists, activists, and citizens who attempt to participate in public discourse or show solidarity with controversial figures.
Political analysts also point out that the timing — immediately after a court appearance — reflects poorly on Nigeria's image as a democratic state. The international community, including the U.S. Embassy and Human Rights Watch, is closely monitoring the situation.
The Road Ahead
As of press time, Sowore's lawyers are working to secure his release while seeking clarification on the charges, if any. The incident has drawn national attention, with hashtags like #FreeSowore and #JusticeForKanu trending across X (formerly Twitter).
Observers note that how the authorities handle this case will either reinforce or weaken public trust in Nigeria's justice system — particularly regarding the rights of dissenting voices and political activists.
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