A dramatic scene unfolded on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja as activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore was whisked away by armed policemen shortly after attending proceedings for detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Eyewitnesses described the arrest as unexpected and tense, with security operatives insisting that Sowore accompany them to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command immediately.
Despite his demand for a formal invitation, Sowore was taken away in a police van after he insisted his lawyer must join him.
When questioned about the reason for the arrest, one of the officers reportedly said, “The commissioner of police said we should bring you to the office.”
The brief exchange left many onlookers confused and concerned, as Sowore had not been formally accused of any specific offence at the time.
Sowore, known for his relentless activism and leadership in civil protests, had appeared in court to show solidarity with Nnamdi Kanu, whose ongoing detention has stirred national debate.
The development comes just days after the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest, which took place across Abuja and other cities, calling for the IPOB leader’s release.
During the protest, 12 individuals, including Kanu’s brother, Emmanuel Kanu, and his legal representative, Aloy Ejimakor, were arrested and subsequently remanded at Kuje Prison.
Police documents later accused the group of inciting disturbance, criminal conspiracy, and breaching public peace.
The First Information Report (FIR) filed before a Kuje Magistrate Court claimed the protesters disobeyed a court order while chanting war songs and obstructing traffic. The report read in part:
“They engaged in inciting disturbance and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order, denying other citizens the freedom of movement while requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.”
According to the charge sheet, the offences were contrary to Sections 152, 114, and 113 of the Penal Code Law.
The court has fixed Friday for the arraignment of the detained protesters.
Meanwhile, it remains uncertain whether the charges will be amended to include Sowore, who has been a vocal supporter of Nnamdi Kanu’s cause and a prominent critic of government policies.
As of press time, the FCT Police Command has not issued an official statement on Sowore’s detention, and it remains unclear whether he will face new charges related to the recent protests.
