The Nigeria Police Force has opened up on why human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, is still being held in custody, days after he voluntarily honoured an invitation by the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit in Abuja.
The Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle, explained that Sowore’s continued detention followed his alleged refusal to make a statement after police presented two separate petitions against him during interrogation.
Speaking on Friday while addressing protesters and journalists in Abuja, Shogunle said the activist was shown both petitions in the presence of his lawyers, but declined to comment or submit any formal statement.
“The two petitions against Omoyele Sowore were shown to him right in my presence. One bordered on forgery of a police document which he published online, and we all know the position of the law. It is your duty to provide the source of how you came about the forged document,” the CP said.
He added that the second petition involved allegations of cyberbullying.
Despite being shown both petitions, the CP said Sowore refused to speak, even while accompanied by his legal team.
“The issue now is that he refused to make a statement in the presence of his lawyers. It is in the record,” Shogunle stated.
Supporters of Sowore have taken to the streets in multiple states including Lagos, Abuja, Osun and Oyo, demanding his release and condemning what they call an abuse of power. Many argue that Sowore’s detention violates his constitutional rights, especially after the 24-hour detention window.
But Shogunle maintained that the police are acting within the boundaries of Nigerian law.
“He has the right to remain silent, but the police also have duties and responsibilities under the law. We won’t say because you have decided to keep mute, you can go. No. We are professionals. Everything we’re doing is within the law,” he said.
He also clarified that Sowore was not coerced into giving a statement, nor was he subjected to any form of brutality while in custody.
“The law is being followed regarding his apprehension and detention. He came himself, and the moment he refused to make a statement, his arrest was ordered,” he explained.
Sowore, who recently led protests advocating better welfare for retired police officers and criticised the promotion structure within the Force, was said to have honoured a police invitation on Wednesday. However, his continued detention has since sparked nationwide concerns and raised fresh questions about freedom of expression and democratic rights in the country.
When asked why the activist was still being held beyond the constitutional 24-hour window, CP Shogunle insisted that legal protocols were being followed.
