The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the immediate arraignment of rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, following his alleged violation of a court order during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.
Sowore was reportedly picked up by police officers on Thursday at the premises of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where he had gone to observe proceedings in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Addressing journalists in Abuja, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the arrest followed Sowore’s alleged role in leading protesters into restricted areas despite a subsisting court order limiting the protest route.
According to Hundeyin, Sowore’s arrest became necessary to ensure fairness in the ongoing prosecution of other protesters who were earlier detained for the same incident.
“It would be unjust to prosecute others and leave out the person who led them into restricted zones,” Hundeyin stated.
“The other 13 arrested individuals, including Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, and his brother, Emmanuel Kanu, have all confirmed Sowore’s role in mobilising them.”
He added that the police intend to file charges without delay. “In the spirit of justice and fair play, Sowore will be arraigned just like the others. We are working to ensure the case is brought before the court today,” he noted.
On Monday, Sowore led the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, demanding the release of the IPOB leader. Although security agencies had cordoned off areas covered by the court restriction, including the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Police Headquarters, and Unity Fountain, the demonstrators were seen around the Transcorp Hilton axis, Berger bus stop, Utako, Jabi, and Apo districts.
