The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has formally addressed what it describes as a “wave of disinformation” concerning the arrest and detention of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore. In a statement released to journalists, the Force Spokesperson, DCP Muyiwa Adejobi, clarified the reasons behind Sowore’s arrest, stating it was based on “credible, corroborated allegations involving criminal offenses such as forgery, cyberstalking, and other infractions.”
According to the statement, Sowore was released on bail within the constitutional 48-hour window, and a valid court-issued remand order justifies his current detention. The police spokesperson emphasized that the arrest was executed in strict compliance with legal provisions and constitutional safeguards. Sowore is expected to appear in court to answer to the accusations in a transparent judicial process.
The NPF specifically refuted claims of torture or inhumane treatment, a narrative that has been widely circulated. The police described the viral image of Sowore with a bandaged arm as a “mischievous” attempt to mislead the public, explaining that the bandage was his personal property prior to his arrest. Adejobi further stated that the Inspector-General of Police had ordered an investigation into how Sowore accessed the bandage while in custody.
The statement also detailed two instances where the NPF dispatched independent medical teams to examine Sowore, both of which he reportedly declined. These refusals, the police noted, have been officially documented. The police spokesperson reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy for torture, in line with the Anti-Torture Act, 2017.
The police statement comes amid widespread condemnation of the arrest from various bodies, including the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). These groups have called for Sowore’s immediate release and an investigation into the reported assault. Sowore himself, after his initial release on bail, took to social media to criticize his “illegal and unjust” detention and reiterated claims that his arm was broken in custody.
The NPF concluded its statement by urging the media and the public to exercise caution and professional responsibility, warning that “sensationalism, particularly when driven by those with personal vendettas against the Police leadership, poses a clear risk to public trust.” The Force affirmed its commitment to the rule of law, stating that no individual is above the law.
