Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoleye Sowore was arrested by armed police officers at the Federal High Court in Abuja today Thursday October 23, 2025. The arrest occurred shortly after he appeared in solidarity with detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.
Police officers claimed they were acting on the orders of the FCT Commissioner of Police, insisting that Sowore must accompany them to the FCT Police Command Headquarters .
“The Commissioner of Police said we should bring you to the office,” They said.
Sowore’s lawyer questioned the absence of a formal letter of invitation and demanded to accompany his client, which was allowed. The arrest has sparked reactions from human rights lawyers, with Inibehe Effiong condemning the action as “preposterous” and stating that the police and the Tinubu regime are making a mockery of the judicial system.
“The arrest of Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court in Abuja moments ago is preposterous. The police and the Tinubu regime are making a mockery of our judicial system. He should be freed immediately. Stop the shenanigans.” he wrote on his X handle voicing out his say on the arrest.
Sowore’s arrest follows a #FreeNnamdiKanu protest led by Sowore on Monday, October 20, where 13 protesters, including Kanu’s lawyer and brother, were arrested and remanded at Kuje Prison. The police alleged that the protesters engaged in criminal conspiracy, incited disturbance, and caused a breach of public peace.
