Omoyele Sowore Arrested: Standing Up for Nnamdi Kanu or Defying Court Orders?

In a move that’s sparking outrage and debate across Nigeria, prominent activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore was arrested today by the Nigeria Police Force—right outside the Federal High Court in Abuja. Sowore, the fiery founder of Sahara Reporters and a veteran of political battles, showed up in solidarity for Nnamdi Kanu, the imprisoned leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). But what started as a court appearance ended in handcuffs.

What Happened?

Sowore’s arrest comes hot on the heels of the #FreeNnamdiKanu protests that rocked Abuja earlier this week. On October 20, demonstrators gathered to demand Kanu’s release from his ongoing terrorism trial. The catch? The protest unfolded in the highly restricted Three Arms Zone—home to Nigeria’s key power centers—and directly violated a court order banning such gatherings there.

Police wasted no time. They rounded up 13 protesters, arraigned them, and now they’ve got Sowore in custody too. According to police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Sowore was the ringleader who “lured” the group into the no-go zone. “To ensure fair play and equal application of the law,” Hundeyin said, Sowore will face the same court process—likely today, and no longer than 24 hours in detention.

The Official Line vs. The Outrage

From the police’s perspective, this is straightforward enforcement: no one is above the law, not even a high-profile activist. Hundeyin made it clear—Sowore evaded the initial arrests, but justice caught up.

But Sowore’s supporters aren’t buying it. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong called the arrest “preposterous,” while activist Deji Adeyanju labeled it politically motivated. Sowore himself had openly defied police warnings, insisting that peaceful assembly is a constitutional right. On social media, #FreeSowore is trending, with many drawing parallels to his infamous 2019 detention by the DSS over the #RevolutionNow protests—where he faced treason charges that were later dropped.

Is this about upholding court orders, or silencing a vocal critic of President Bola Tinubu’s administration? Sowore’s recent posts targeting Tinubu and police brass haven’t helped his case in official eyes.

A Pattern of Clashes

This isn’t Sowore’s first rodeo. The man has built a career on fearless journalism and unapologetic activism. From exposing corruption at Sahara Reporters to leading street protests, he’s no stranger to the inside of a police cell. Each time, his arrests ignite national conversations about free speech, rights, and government overreach.

What’s Next?

As of now, Sowore is cooling his heels at the FCT Police Command, awaiting arraignment. Public reaction is split: some cheer the police for cracking down on lawlessness, while others see it as another blow to dissent in Nigeria’s fragile democracy.

One thing’s certain—Sowore won’t go quietly. Expect fireworks in court, fiery statements from his camp, and a social media storm that could pressure authorities. In a country where protests often collide with power, this story is far from over.

What do you think? Law and order, or suppression of rights? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

Written by Gold Oyeniran