The Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle, has explained the reason behind the detention of human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore.
Speaking to protesters and journalists in Abuja on Friday, Shogunle stated that Sowore was arrested and detained after he allegedly refused to provide a statement during a police interrogation.
Sowore had honoured an invitation from the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, but was subsequently detained. His detention has sparked protests across the country, including in Lagos, Abuja, Osun, and Oyo States, with supporters calling for his immediate release.
Recently, Sowore led a protest demanding better welfare for retired police officers and had criticised a recent promotion exercise within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Addressing the media in a video shared by Sahara Reporters, CP Shogunle revealed that two petitions had been filed against Sowore.
“One petition involves the alleged forgery of a police document, which he published online,” Shogunle said. “Under the law, it is his responsibility to disclose the source of such a document. The second petition concerns alleged cyberbullying.”
According to Shogunle, both petitions were presented to Sowore in the presence of his lawyers. However, the activist reportedly refused to make a formal statement.
“When an allegation is made, the law requires the individual to respond and state their position,” the CP said. “While Sowore has the right to remain silent, the police are also legally bound to carry out certain procedures if a suspect refuses to speak. That process is being followed professionally.”
He emphasized that Sowore was not coerced into giving a statement, and that all actions taken by the police were within the bounds of the law.
“We’re not saying he must talk, but if he chooses to remain silent, the law also empowers us to proceed accordingly. Refusing to make a statement doesn’t mean he walks free,” Shogunle explained.
When a lawyer questioned why Sowore was being held beyond the constitutional 24-hour limit, the CP insisted that legal protocols were being followed.
“We are professionals, and every step we’re taking is backed by law,” he said.
To address concerns about Sowore’s well-being, Shogunle offered to take a few protesters to visit the location where he is being held, assuring them that he is not being mistreated.
“He came voluntarily, and after he declined to make a statement, we had no choice but to place him under arrest,” Shogunle concluded.
