Silence Behind Bars: Sowore’s Detention Linked to Refusal to Give Statement, Police Claim
Abuja, Nigeria – The Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, Abayomi Shogunle, has stated that detained human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore remains in police custody because he refused to provide a statement during interrogation.
Sowore, who contested Nigeria’s presidency under the African Action Congress (AAC), was arrested earlier this week following two separate petitions submitted to the police. His detention has since sparked widespread public criticism, with many civil society organizations and political commentators demanding his immediate release.
Addressing protesters and journalists at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Friday, CP Shogunle explained that the police acted within the law and followed due process.
“The two petitions against Omoyele Sowore were shown to him right in my presence,” said Shogunle in a video broadcast by Sahara Reporters. “One petition involves forgery of a police document, which he allegedly published online. The second is related to cyberbullying.”
He added that the controversial documents were presented in the presence of Sowore’s lawyers. However, the activist reportedly declined to make any statement in response to the allegations.
“It is on record that he refused to put down a statement. Under Nigerian law, when an allegation is made against a person, it is their duty to respond and present their own side,” the CP added.
While Shogunle emphasized that the petitions are being treated seriously, Sowore’s supporters argue that the arrest is politically motivated and part of a pattern of targeting dissenting voices.
