The Nigeria Police Force has justified the recent arrest of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, stating it was based on "credible allegations" of forgery, cyberstalking, and related offences, while firmly denying reports of torture during his detention.
In a statement on Friday, Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasized that Sowore’s arrest and subsequent detention were lawful, carried out with due regard to constitutional rights and legal procedures.
He clarified that the activist was granted bail within the 48-hour window mandated by Section 35(4) of the 1999 Constitution, and rejected viral claims of mistreatment. “The Force maintains a zero-tolerance policy for torture,” Adejobi stated, citing the Anti-Torture Act of 2017 and Nigeria’s international human rights commitments.
Addressing circulating photos showing Sowore with a bandaged arm, the police claimed the bandage was already in his possession before his arrest. An internal probe has been launched into how he accessed it in custody, particularly as Sowore allegedly declined medical exams on two occasions offered by police health teams.
“The record must show that the opportunity for independent medical verification was twice provided and twice rejected,” the police noted, adding that his detention was sanctioned by a valid court remand order and free from political influence or personal bias.
The Force concluded by urging media outlets and the public to refrain from sensationalism, asserting that no individual is above the law, regardless of status or social media influence.
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