“Ogbankwa Slams Police for Bias in Sowore’s Case, Calls for Justice”
Legal practitioner and Convener of the Security Situation Room, Douglas Ogbankwa Esq., has commended activist Omoyele Sowore for his resolute decision to reject the stringent bail conditions imposed by the Police High Command in Abuja. Sowore was reportedly instructed to provide a high-ranking civil servant as surety, a demand that Ogbankwa described as “obnoxious.”
“It takes incredible resolve to challenge established authorities in Nigeria, and Sowore’s stance is truly commendable,” Ogbankwa stated, praising the activist’s courage in standing up to what he sees as an unjust system.
In a show of solidarity with Sowore and his dedicated legal team, which includes Chief Femi Falana, SAN, and Deji Adeyanju, Ogbankwa revealed plans to feature a new book, Articles for Justice, in his upcoming book launch on February 11, 2025—coincidentally on his birthday. The inclusion of the book is meant to honor their tireless efforts in the pursuit of justice.
Drawing inspiration from the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, Ogbankwa stressed that the legal profession must continue to serve as a “bastion of hope, help, and succor for the repressed, the oppressed, and the suppressed.” He added that true freedom can only be realized when society collectively demands it.
Further criticizing the police’s role in Sowore’s case, Ogbankwa pointed out that the police act both as complainant and investigator, violating the principle of natural justice. He referenced the legal maxim Nemo Judex In Causa Sua (“No one can be a judge in their own cause”), asserting that the police’s involvement in investigating a case stemming from their own actions creates an inherent bias.
