Sowore’s Detention Sparks Outcry: IPAC Calls for Justice and Fair Treatment
The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has called for immediate intervention from President Bola Tinubu regarding the ongoing issue between the police and Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 election. IPAC also demands the unconditional release of Sowore, who is the publisher of SaharaReporters.
Sowore had complied with the police’s invitation on Monday, attending an interrogation at the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja. However, he was detained afterward due to his inability to meet the stringent bail conditions, which required a surety who must be a civil servant at Grade Level 16. Sowore found this demand unreasonable and refused to comply.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Chinyere Oge-Kalu, the National Publicity Secretary of IPAC, the council emphasized that Sowore’s continued detention violates his fundamental rights as outlined in the 1999 Constitution. They have demanded his immediate release or, in the alternative, for the police to bring him before a court of law if there is a valid case against him.
“The presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of criminal law, guaranteed by our Constitution. As such, Sowore remains innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law,” the statement read.
IPAC further urged the police to perform their duties within the bounds of the law, refraining from assuming powers beyond the Constitution. The council called for justice, fairness, and equity, asserting that the release of the AAC leader is crucial for upholding democratic values.
The council also noted that Sowore’s detention stems from his vocal opposition to the extension of the tenure of the Inspector General of Police and his calls for greater accountability within the police force. IPAC concluded by reminding the police that freedom of speech is a basic right for all citizens, and democracy thrives when people can voice their opinions without fear of harassment or unlawful detention.
