Several human rights organisations and pro-democracy activists have called for the immediate and unconditional release of Omoyele Sowore, the former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, who is reportedly being detained under questionable circumstances.
In a joint statement released on Thursday, the groups accused the Nigerian police authorities of violating Sowore’s fundamental human rights, describing his arrest as a blatant attack on free speech and political dissent.
They specifically urged the international community, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, to impose immediate visa restrictions on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and other officials allegedly involved in the case.
“The unlawful detention of Mr. Sowore is part of a growing pattern of state repression against voices critical of the government. We call on democratic nations to take a firm stand by denying safe haven to those undermining democratic values in Nigeria,” the statement read in part.
The activists also vowed to continue public demonstrations and online campaigns until Sowore regains his freedom, warning that his prolonged detention could further damage Nigeria’s human rights record before the international community.
This development comes amid growing tensions between the Nigerian government and rights advocates, with recent clampdowns on protesters and journalists raising fears of a shrinking civic space in the country.