Sowore Faces New Charges in Court Over Viral Police Extortion Footage
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday for his hearing, as his ongoing legal battle continues over a viral video exposing alleged police extortion.
Sowore arrived at the court around 8:45 am, ready for the latest phase of his legal dispute, which began after he released footage showing police officers allegedly extorting motorists on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Access Road in Lagos. The video led to his invitation by the Nigeria Police Force.
After appearing at the police station, Sowore was detained at the Nigerian Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) office in Abuja for refusing to accept bail conditions, which included producing a level 16 civil servant as surety and surrendering his passport.
Initially charged with resisting public officers, disobedience to lawful orders, and cyberstalking, the charges were later revised to include cyberbullying and endangering police officers. The new charges also accuse Sowore of repeatedly calling the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the ‘illegal IG.’
While Sowore was granted bail, his passport was withheld, sparking outrage from his supporters. On Thursday, the pro-democracy group Take It Back (TIB) Movement called for the immediate and unconditional release of Sowore’s passport, accusing the government of using legal means to stifle his freedom.
“As @YeleSowore appears at the FHC court tomorrow at 9 a.m., we insist that the lawless govt of Tinubu halts the needless persecution of Sowore by releasing his passport immediately and unconditionally,” the group wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Despite the ongoing legal challenges, Sowore remains a vocal critic of the government, using social media and public platforms to demand accountability and challenge the authorities. His court appearance is expected to draw significant public attention as his case continues to unfold, representing a broader struggle for justice and free speech in Nigeria.
