IPAC Demands Immediate Release of Sowore, Cites Violation of Fundamental Rights
The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Omoyele Sowore, the National Chairman of the African Action Congress (AAC) and 2023 presidential candidate, following his detention by the police. Sowore was detained on Monday at the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja after he failed to meet the stringent bail conditions set by the police, including the requirement to provide a Grade Level 16 civil servant as a surety.
Inter-Party Council Calls for Sowore’s Unconditional Release, Slams Police Action
In a statement released on Wednesday, IPAC condemned Sowore’s continued detention, describing it as a violation of his fundamental rights under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. The council argued that Sowore’s arrest was politically motivated, with his opposition to the extension of the Inspector General of Police’s tenure and his calls for accountability in governance being key factors behind his detention.
IPAC Alleges Political Motive Behind Sowore’s Detention, Urges Presidential Intervention
The council also warned against any attempt to suppress dissent through arrests, urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter. IPAC stressed that the police should operate within the bounds of the law and avoid any actions that might undermine Nigeria’s democracy. “It is in the interest of justice, fair play, equity, and good conscience to release the party leader immediately or charge him to court,” the statement read.
IPAC Warns Against Suppressing Dissent, Calls for Sowore’s Release
The council reiterated that freedom of speech is a fundamental right, emphasizing that democracy thrives when citizens can freely express their views without fear of intimidation, arrest, or detention. “Our democracy will strive if the people express their views without fear of Police arrest, detention, and brutality,” IPAC added.
The call for Sowore’s release comes as citizens continue to rally for his freedom, with protests taking place outside the court. The situation raises concerns about the balance between law enforcement and the protection of democratic rights in Nigeria.
