Police Arrest Sowore Second Time After #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest
Abuja, Nigeria
Nigerian police re-arrested activist Omoyele Sowore moments after a Kuje Magistrate Court granted him bail. The Sahara Reporters founder and African Action Congress leader was among 14 detained during a #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest on October 20, demanding the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu. Initially arrested on October 23 for unlawful assembly and public disturbance, Sowore secured bail with strict conditions: ₦500,000, two sureties, and passport surrender. However, as his legal team processed paperwork, over 50 officers stormed the court, assaulted Sowore, and forced him into a van, citing a “secret remand order” without showing documents.
Eyewitnesses described a violent scene, with CSP Ilyasu Barau of the FCT Anti-Vice Unit allegedly punching and dragging Sowore. The re-arrest, reportedly tied to Sowore’s criticism of President Bola Tinubu and Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, saw him taken to Kuje Prison, nullifying the court’s ruling. Police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin had earlier justified Sowore’s first arrest as ensuring “fair play” in investigations. The lack of transparency around the new charges has fueled accusations of targeted suppression, with Sowore’s team planning urgent legal action for his expected arraignment on October 27.
The incident has sparked outrage across Nigeria. Social media erupted with #FreeSowore hashtags, as videos of the assault spread widely. Activist Deji Adeyanju called Nigeria “lawless,” while human rights groups condemned the police for undermining judicial authority. Supporters, including AAC members, threatened protests at police headquarters, and civil society figures labeled the action a chilling attack on dissent. The re-arrest follows Sowore’s history of detentions, notably in 2019 for #RevolutionNow protests, highlighting ongoing tensions between activists and the government.
This episode underscores Nigeria’s struggle with protest rights and judicial independence. The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement, tied to separatist unrest in the southeast, has intensified scrutiny of state tactics. Sowore’s re-arrest on vague charges raises fears of selective prosecution to silence critics, potentially emboldening further abuses. As public anger grows, with calls for international attention given Sowore’s U.S. ties, the case could galvanize opposition or deepen distrust in Nigeria’s institutions ahead of Monday’s court date.
About The Author
