The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that the detention of activist and politician Omoyele Sowore was aimed at guaranteeing fairness in prosecuting those involved in Monday’s protest in Abuja.
Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin spoke to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, explaining that Sowore allegedly led demonstrators into a restricted area during a rally supporting detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu. His arrest, according to the police, was necessary to ensure justice is applied equally.
“If we move from there to charge some people to court and leave the person who led them to commit that act, more like their leader, the elite protester who told them and took them into the restricted area, that would not be fair,” Hundeyin said.
“And that’s why, in the spirit of fair play and to ensure that justice is served, Omoyele Sowore was arrested today,” he added.
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The police spokesman assured that Sowore would not be held beyond the legally required period and is expected to be arraigned promptly.
“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,” Hundeyin stated.
Sowore was arrested on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, shortly after showing solidarity with Nnamdi Kanu. He has been actively campaigning for Kanu’s release and led Monday’s protest demanding the detained leader’s freedom.