A coalition of activists and civil society organizations gathered outside the Federal High Court in Abuja today, January 29, 2025, to protest the Nigerian police’s arrest and cybercrime charges against Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) leader.
Sowore Faces Cybercrime Charges
The protesters, chanting anti-government songs, demanded Sowore’s immediate release, asserting that his actions exposed corruption within the Nigerian police and did not constitute a crime. Placards carried by the demonstrators bore inscriptions such as:
- #FreeSoworeNow
- #FreeAdaramolaNowAnd10Others
- #EndPoliceBrutality
- #SackTheIGPNowForUnlawfulDetention
High-Profile Support in Court
Inside the courtroom, Sowore received significant support from notable figures, including the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and former senator and activist, Shehu Sani, both of whom were present in solidarity with the activist.
YC Maikyau, SAN, OON: A Legacy of Leadership in the Nigerian Bar Association
Activists Condemn Police Actions
Addressing the protesters outside the court, Mrs. Ene Obi, a prominent civil rights advocate, condemned the actions of the Nigerian police, calling the charges against Sowore “unwarranted and unnecessary.” She further urged the authorities to withdraw similar charges against Adaramola and ten other activists arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests in 2024.
Sowore’s Court Appearance
Sowore was brought into the courtroom dressed in traditional attire and appeared in high spirits despite the charges. His trial has garnered widespread attention, with many viewing it as an attack on free speech and the right to dissent in Nigeria.
The trial proceedings continue amid mounting calls for justice and an end to the misuse of cybercrime laws to silence critics of the government.