Today, October 23, 2025, Nigeria Police arrested activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore outside the Federal High Court in Abuja. Police said they detained Sowore after witnesses identified him as the person who led protesters into a restricted area.
Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin told reporters that arrested protesters named Sowore as their leader. “From the statements, every one of them mentioned that one Sowore led them into the restricted area,” Hundeyin said. He added that the arrest sought to ensure fairness in prosecution for everyone involved.
Authorities said the arrest followed Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest calling for Nnamdi Kanu’s release. Police argued protesters violated a subsisting court order restricting demonstrations in sensitive Abuja zones.
Hundeyin stated the restriction covered Aso Rock, the National Assembly, and adjacent government areas. He added that Sowore would face prosecution but would not remain detained beyond the time permitted by law.
Legal sources confirmed the police filed a suit against Sowore and other conveners, with a hearing set soon. The Force said it arrested Sowore lawfully and followed investigative statements from earlier detainees. Police also warned citizens to obey court orders and avoid unlawful gatherings in restricted areas.
