The Nigeria Police Force has defended the arrest of activist and politician Omoyele Sowore, saying the move was necessary to ensure fairness in the prosecution of those involved in Monday’s protest in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, explained that Sowore was taken into custody for allegedly leading demonstrators into a restricted area during a rally held in solidarity with detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Hundeyin said the police acted to guarantee that justice was applied equally to everyone connected with the protest.
“If we charge some people to court and leave out the person who led them into that restricted area — the one who directed and guided them there — that would not be fair,” Hundeyin stated.
“In the spirit of fair play and to ensure justice is served, Omoyele Sowore was arrested today.”
The police spokesman added that Sowore’s detention would not exceed legal limits, noting that the activist was expected to be arraigned the same day.
“Like the others, he won’t spend up to 24 hours in custody. Once we finalize the charges, he’ll be taken to court. In fact, our plan is to have him prosecuted today,” Hundeyin said.
According to PUNCH Online, Sowore was arrested on Thursday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, shortly after showing up in solidarity with Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, has been a vocal advocate for Kanu’s release and reportedly led Monday’s demonstration demanding the IPOB leader’s freedom.
