Nigerian human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has reportedly suffered a broken arm following an encounter with a police unit at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja.
The incident occurred around 6:00 AM on Thursday when a team of nine police officers, led by a Chief Superintendent of Police from the IGP Monitoring Unit, allegedly stormed his detention cell under the guise of taking him to court.
Omoyele Sowore, who has been leading protests calling for improved pension for police officers, was arrested in Abuja when he showed up to honour a police invitation regarding the protests.
According to reports, the officers, eight of whom were heavily armed, forcefully entered the holding cell where Sowore was detained. When he requested to see a formal charge or inform his legal team, the officers allegedly rough-handled him, resulting in a broken arm. Instead of being taken to court, he was transported to another undisclosed police facility.
The development has sparked outrage online, fueling the trending hashtag #EgbetokunMustGo, a call for the resignation or removal of the current Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The situation has raised renewed concerns over the Nigerian police’s alleged use of excessive force and disregard for due process, especially in handling activists and critics of the government.
The image released shows Sowore with a visibly bandaged wrist and a solemn expression, further drawing public sympathy and attention to his plight. Supporters and human rights advocates have since demanded an independent investigation and immediate medical care for the activist.
This incident adds to the growing list of allegations of police misconduct in Nigeria, a recurring issue that continues to attract both national and international condemnation.
