The Nigeria Police Force has clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest of activist and politician Omoyele Sowore in Abuja on Thursday.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, said Sowore was arrested to ensure fairness in the prosecution of individuals involved in Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Hundeyin explained that it would be unjust to prosecute participants in the protest while leaving out their leader.
“If we move from there to charge some people to court and leave the person who led them to commit that act—their leader, the elite protester who told them and took them into the restricted area—that would not be fair,” Hundeyin said.
He stressed that Sowore’s arrest was carried out “in the spirit of fair play” and to ensure that justice is served.
The police spokesman also assured that the activist would not be detained beyond the constitutionally permitted timeframe.
“Like the others, he wouldn’t spend time with us. He wouldn’t spend up to 24 hours with us. Once we wrap up the charges, he’s going to be prosecuted. In fact, if everything goes right, our plan is to ensure that he goes to court today,” Hundeyin added.
Sowore’s arrest followed Monday’s protest calling for the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, which reportedly disrupted activities in parts of Abuja.
