Sowore’s arrest: Tinubu’s govt must end disregard for rule of law – Amnesty

By John Ogunsemore

Amnesty International Nigeria said the Nigerian government has once again demonstrated its utter disregard for human rights with the arrest of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.

The global human rights group stated this in a statement shared on Facebook shortly after armed policemen arrested Sowore in Abuja on Thursday.

The Publisher of Sahara Reporters was arrested at the complex of the Federal High Court, shortly after he made appearance for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Sowore, who is leading the protest for Kanu’s release from detention, was ambushed by security operatives who insisted that he must follow them to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command.

In its statement, Amnesty demanded the immediate release of Sowore and Kanu’s brother and lawyer, who were arrested days earlier.

The group said, “Amnesty International strongly condemns the arbitrary arrest of human rights defender Omoyele Sowore today.

“This came days after the unlawful arrest of lawyer Aloy Ejimakor and Emmanuel Kanu.

“Both of them were involved in the peaceful protest calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.

“Once again, Nigerian authorities have displayed utter disregard for human rights and a longstanding demonization of peaceful assembly.

“The authorities must release trio immediately and unconditionally. President Bola Tinubu government’s utter disdain for the rule of law must end.

“The authorities must stop using the security agents and judiciary as a tool for persecuting people who voice dissenting opinions, challenge abuse and call for accountability.”