Bandage was part of his personal belongings before his arrest and not the result of any injury sustained in custody.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has clarified that the charges brought against human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, are strictly criminal in nature and not politically motivated.
Police authorities stated that these allegations are currently the subject of active investigations, and the activist will soon be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Sowore’s arrest was based on credible and corroborated allegations involving serious offences, including forgery, cyberstalking, and other infractions currently under investigation.
The police stressed that the operation was conducted in full compliance with existing laws, constitutional safeguards, and the rights of the suspect.
Adejobi stated that Sowore was promptly informed of the charges against him and granted bail within the 48-hour constitutional timeframe stipulated under Section 35(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). “Mr. Sowore was released on bail well within the constitutional limit. He is fully aware of the nature of the allegations against him,” Adejobi said.
The NPF also dismissed allegations that Sowore had been tortured during his detention in Abuja. Viral images of the activist with a bandaged arm, the police explained, were misleading, as the bandage was part of his personal belongings before his arrest and not the result of any injury sustained in custody.
To further counter the torture claims, the police revealed that Sowore was offered two separate medical examinations on August 7 and 8, conducted by teams led by the Medical Director of the Muhammadu Buhari Police Hospital and the Force Medical Officer, respectively. However, they said Sowore declined both opportunities for independent medical verification.
The police emphasized that his detention was sanctioned by a valid court remand order, cautioning civil society groups and media outlets against what they described as “sensationalism” in reporting the matter.
“No individual, regardless of status, influence, or social media reach, is above the law. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting human rights, respecting the rule of law, and pursuing justice without fear or favour,” Adejobi stressed.
Meanwhile, IREPORT247NEWS reported late Friday that Sowore had been released from detention after what his supporters described as an extended period of unlawful incarceration.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page shortly after regaining his freedom, Sowore confirmed his release, attributing it to the sustained pressure from the revolutionary movement demanding justice and systemic reforms in Nigeria.
“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! #RevolutionNow,” he wrote.