The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has strongly condemned the recent arrest of human rights activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately order his release along with other protesters detained in Abuja. According to multiple reports, Sowore was arrested shortly after attending Nnamdi Kanu’s trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja, sparking widespread outrage among citizens and civil rights groups.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the activist was approached and detained by security operatives just moments after interacting with supporters outside the courtroom. The arrest, which took place on October 23, followed days of tension after the nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest held on October 20. During that demonstration, security agents reportedly fired teargas to disperse peaceful protesters demanding the unconditional release of the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore’s Arrest After Protest Sparks Backlash
Sources revealed that Sowore had earlier managed to escape arrest during the chaotic protest scene but was eventually picked up while attending Kanu’s court session. During the protest, several individuals, including Kanu’s lawyer, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, his brother, Emmanuel Kanu, and at least eleven others, were detained. Human rights observers described the arrests as part of an increasing crackdown on peaceful civic engagement under the current administration.
Videos circulating online showed protesters chanting solidarity songs before being dispersed with tear gas. Several participants alleged physical assault and confiscation of their belongings by the security operatives. The development has once again ignited conversations around Nigeria’s human rights record and the government’s approach toward dissenting voices.
SERAP Condemns Arrest, Calls for Immediate Release
In a statement released on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, SERAP described Sowore’s arrest as “arbitrary, unlawful, and a gross violation of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.” The group demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all those arrested during and after the protest.
“BREAKING: The Tinubu administration must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Omoyele Sowore and other protesters reportedly arbitrarily arrested following a peaceful protest on Monday in Abuja. No one should ever be arrested simply for peacefully exercising their human rights,” SERAP stated.
The organisation further reminded the federal government of its binding obligations under both domestic and international human rights frameworks, including the Nigerian Constitution (1999 as amended), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
“Peaceful assembly is a constitutional and fundamental human right. Nigerian authorities must respect, protect, and ensure the effective enjoyment of this right. Arresting citizens for expressing their views or participating in peaceful protests sets a dangerous precedent and undermines democracy,” the statement added.
SERAP also urged the government to investigate reports of excessive force used by security operatives during the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest and ensure accountability for any officers found guilty of abuse or misconduct.
Public Reactions and Growing Outrage
The news of Sowore’s arrest has triggered strong reactions nationwide and across social media platforms. Many Nigerians described the incident as an attack on free speech and a throwback to the dark days of military dictatorship. Hashtags such as #FreeSowore and #EndTyrannyNow began trending shortly after reports of his arrest surfaced online.
Some citizens accused the Tinubu administration of hypocrisy, noting that many of those in power today once led protests and rallies against former governments. Others urged the president to show true democratic leadership by allowing freedom of expression and ending the harassment of activists and journalists.
Civil society organisations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, have also weighed in, demanding Sowore’s release and cautioning the government against the continued shrinking of civic space in the country. The incident has reignited debates over whether the Tinubu administration is committed to upholding democratic values and the rule of law.
As public pressure continues to mount, all eyes are now on the presidency and the Nigerian Police Force to see whether immediate steps will be taken to address SERAP’s demand and restore public trust in the government’s respect for human rights and constitutional freedoms.