The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that the arrest of activist and politician Omoyele Sowore was part of efforts to ensure fairness and equal treatment in the prosecution of those involved in Monday’s protest in Abuja.
Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, made this known on Thursday while addressing journalists in Abuja.
According to him, Sowore, who allegedly led protesters into a restricted area during a demonstration calling for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, was arrested to ensure that justice applies to everyone involved.
Hundeyin said, “If we move from there to charge some people to court and leave the person who led them to commit that act—their leader, the elite protester who told them and took them into the restricted area—that would not be fair.
“And that’s why, in the spirit of fair play and to ensure that justice is served, Omoyele Sowore was arrested today.”
He explained that Sowore would not be held beyond the legally permissible period and would be arraigned as soon as the charges are ready.
“Like the others, he wouldn’t spend time with us. He wouldn’t spend up to 24 hours with us. Once we wrap up the charges, he’s going to be prosecuted. In fact, if everything goes right, our plan is to ensure that he’s prosecuted today. He goes to court today,” the police spokesman added.
Sowore was arrested on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, shortly after attending the proceedings for Nnamdi Kanu in a show of solidarity.
The Sahara Reporters publisher has been one of the leading voices calling for Kanu’s release and reportedly led the Monday protest that resulted in several arrests.
