Atiku Condemns Arrest of Sowore, Labels It a "Shameful Abuse of Power"
Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has vehemently criticized the recent arrest and alleged brutal treatment of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore by operatives of the Inspector-General of Police Monitoring Team, describing the incident as a “shameful abuse of power.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, Atiku expressed dismay over what he termed a blatant violation of democratic principles and human rights. Sowore, a prominent activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, was reportedly arrested under controversial circumstances, with allegations of excessive force used by the police operatives during the operation.
“This arrest and the brutal treatment meted out to Omoyele Sowore represent a dangerous assault on free speech and the fundamental rights of Nigerians,” Atiku stated. “Such actions by law enforcement agencies are a shameful abuse of power and a direct attack on the democratic values we hold dear.”
Atiku called for Sowore’s immediate release and urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest. He further emphasized the need for security agencies to operate within the confines of the law and respect the rights of citizens, particularly those engaged in activism and journalism.
The former vice president’s remarks have sparked widespread reactions, with civil society groups and human rights advocates echoing his call for justice. Sowore’s arrest has reignited debates about the shrinking civic space in Nigeria and the challenges faced by activists and media practitioners in holding the government accountable.
As of press time, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued an official statement regarding the arrest or the allegations of brutality. Efforts to obtain comments from the Inspector-General of Police Monitoring Team were unsuccessful.
Political analysts suggest that the incident could further strain the relationship between the government and civil society, particularly at a time when public trust in institutions is fragile. Atiku’s intervention, they note, underscores the growing concerns over the use of state machinery to suppress dissent.
The PDP stalwart concluded his statement by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to stifle free expression, stressing that democracy thrives only when the voices of the people are heard and protected.
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