Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore was Thursday arrested at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Sowore, who led the #FreeNnamdiKanuProtest on Monday in the nation’s capital, was apprehended by police shortly after leaving the court premises.
The activist, known for his outspoken advocacy and civil rights campaigns, had earlier fled when security operatives arrested other protesters during the demonstration.
He later took to social media to confirm the arrest of 13 protesters, including Nnamdi Kanu’s brother and lawyer, accusing authorities of suppressing free speech.
Despite police warnings against the protest, particularly around restricted areas of Abuja, Sowore insisted it was his constitutional right to demonstrate peacefully.
Before his arrest, the activist had shared a post revealing his encounter at the Federal High Court with Chief Kanu Agabi lead counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, who reportedly disclosed plans for the legal team’s withdrawal from the case.
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“He said the withdrawal was entirely political,” Sowore wrote.
As he exited the court premises, police officers intercepted him and requested he accompany them to the station. After a brief standoff, Sowore complied and was taken away.
One of his close associates told Daily Trust that the FCT Commissioner of Police had earlier invited Sowore for questioning, describing his eventual arrest as “unnecessary haste.”
“He was already planning to honour the invitation. It was in his itinerary. I wonder why they were in such a hurry,” the associate said.
As of press time, police authorities had yet to issue an official statement regarding his arrest or possible charges.
