The Nigeria Police Force has denied claims that human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was tortured while in their custody.
This follows viral pictures shared online on Thursday, showing Sowore with a bandaged arm, which sparked outrage and accusations of police brutality.
Sowore was arrested on Wednesday after honouring a police invitation at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. He was reportedly being investigated over allegations including forgery, cyberstalking, and other related offences. He was released on Friday night.
In a statement on Friday, Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, clarified that the activist was not subjected to any inhuman treatment. He said the bandage seen in the viral photo was part of Sowore’s belongings when he arrived at the station and was not due to any incident in custody.
Adejobi noted that the Inspector-General of Police has ordered an internal probe to determine how Sowore had access to the bandage during detention, especially since the activist refused medical checks offered by independent police medical teams.
He further stated that Sowore will soon appear in court to face the charges against him in what he described as a “lawful and transparent judicial process.”
This incident adds to ongoing tensions between Sowore and security agencies, stemming from his frequent criticism of the government and past arrests related to protests and activism.
