Human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has regained his freedom after spending two days in police custody.
Sowore was arrested on Wednesday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, where he had gone to honour an invitation from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit. His detention sparked public outrage, with many describing it as politically motivated.
Confirming his release in a Facebook post on Friday, the activist described his arrest as “illegal and unjust,” insisting that the move was an attempt to suppress the revolutionary movement he represents.
> “The Nigeria Police Force has capitulated to the demands of the revolutionary movement. I have been released from unjust, illegal and unwarranted detention. However, it is nothing to celebrate, but thank you for not giving up!” Sowore wrote.
His release came just hours after supporters staged coordinated protests in at least five states, demanding his immediate freedom. The demonstrations, which drew activists, civil society members, and ordinary citizens, called on the police to respect democratic rights and the rule of law.
As of press time, the police were yet to issue an official statement explaining the reason for his arrest or the circumstances surrounding his release.
This latest arrest adds to Sowore’s long history of confrontations with Nigerian authorities over his outspoken activism and calls for systemic reform.
