By Peter Omopo / Abuja – August 8, 2025
The Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle, has revealed the reasons behind the continued detention of human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, by the Nigeria Police Force.
Addressing journalists and protesters in Abuja on Friday, CP Shogunle stated that Sowore’s arrest followed his refusal to provide a statement during police interrogation, despite the presence of his legal representatives.
“The moment he refused to make a statement, his arrest was ordered,” Shogunle declared.
Sowore, who had earlier honoured an invitation by the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit at the Force Headquarters on Wednesday, was subsequently detained. His arrest has sparked protests across several states including Lagos, Osun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory, with supporters demanding his immediate release.
Explaining further, CP Shogunle disclosed that two separate petitions were brought against Sowore: one alleging forgery of a police document which was published online, and the other concerning cyberbullying.
“The two petitions were shown to him in the presence of his lawyers. The one on forgery requires him to explain how he obtained and published a police document. The law is clear: you must state your source when you publish a forged official document,” he said.
Despite confirming Sowore’s right to remain silent, the CP emphasized that the police have corresponding legal obligations when a suspect refuses to cooperate.
“Yes, he has the right to remain silent, but the police also have duties under the law. We are following due process and have not forced him to make a statement,” he added.
When questioned about the legality of detaining Sowore beyond the 24-hour constitutional limit, Shogunle maintained that all procedures are in line with legal provisions.
“We are professionals. Everything being done is within the ambit of the law,” he assured.
To dispel concerns about Sowore’s welfare, the CP even offered to allow a select group of protesters to see the detained activist and confirm he was not being mistreated.
Sowore had recently led a protest demanding improved welfare for retired police officers and had also made public criticisms of a recent police promotion exercise, moves many believe may have triggered renewed police scrutiny.
The development has drawn widespread reactions, with public figures including Peter Obi condemning the arrest as a “miscarriage of justice and abuse of power.”
As tensions mount, calls for Sowore’s immediate release continue to gain momentum nationwide.
