Sahara Reporters has announced via its official X handle that the Concerned Nigerians for the Protection of Human Rights and the Rule of Law Initiative has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Police Force over the potential detention of human rights activist and #RevolutionNow convener, Omoyele Sowore. The group has vowed to mobilize protests should the activist spend a single night in detention following his scheduled appearance for questioning on January 27, 2025.
In a strongly worded statement signed by its spokesperson, Agada Abuh Theophilus, the group expressed outrage over what it described as an unwarranted attempt to intimidate Sowore, a prominent human rights advocate and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).
“We will accompany Sowore to the police station on January 27, 2025, at 10 AM. We warn the police that any attempt to detain or arrest him will be met with widespread condemnation and protests,” the statement read.
The group described the charges leveled against Sowore, including “Resisting and Obstructing Public Officers” and “Disobedience to Lawful Order,” as baseless and a diversion from the pressing issues plaguing the police force.
“Sowore has not committed any crime. Instead, he has dedicated his life to championing the rights of all Nigerians. These charges are nothing more than a calculated attempt to silence a voice that has consistently called for justice and accountability,” the statement emphasized.
The group also called on the police to redirect their focus toward addressing more critical threats to public safety, such as the rising insecurity and corruption within their own ranks. “It is time for the police to act in the interest of justice rather than perpetuating a culture of fear and repression. Targeting activists like Sowore will only deepen public distrust in the system,” the statement added.
This development has sparked public outcry, with many Nigerians and civil society groups rallying behind Sowore and condemning what they perceive as an abuse of power. The situation has reignited discussions about the shrinking space for dissent and activism in Nigeria.
Sowore, a fiery critic of government policies and a staunch advocate for systemic reform, has faced multiple arrests and harassment in the past. Despite this, he has remained unwavering in his mission to fight for social justice and good governance in Nigeria.
The group’s statement ended with a clear warning: “We will not sit idly by while the police misuse their authority to suppress voices that dare to speak truth to power. Any attempt to detain Sowore will be met with a united and determined response from Nigerians.”
As the January 27 meeting looms, tensions are high, and all eyes are on the Nigeria Police Force. Will they heed the warnings, or will this escalate into yet another flashpoint in the ongoing struggle for human rights and justice in Nigeria?
PIONEER NEWS 