Omoyele Sowore's Detention: A "Shameful Abuse of Power

 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has slammed the Nigeria Police Force over the arrest and detention of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, describing it as a "shameful abuse of power". Sowore was detained after honoring an invitation by the Inspector General of Police's Monitoring Unit over allegations of forgery and criminal defamation.

*Details of the Incident*

- Sowore alleges that police officers broke his arm during detention.

- Atiku Abubakar condemned the action, stating Sowore's "only offence is speaking out against injustice, nepotism, and misrule".

- The police action was reportedly driven by a personal vendetta rather than lawful policing.¹ ² ³

*Reactions to Sowore's Detention*

- *Atiku Abubakar's Condemnation*: Atiku cited Nigeria Police Regulation 367, emphasizing that no police officer should institute legal proceedings for personal interests.

- *Calls for Release*: Atiku demands Sowore's immediate and unconditional release, warning that the incident is "an attack on every Nigerian who dares to speak truth to power".

- *Support from Others*: Groups like the Nigeria Labour Congress and other rights organizations have also demanded Sowore's release.?