Sowore detained indefinitely after rejecting bail conditions

Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has been detained indefinitely by the Nigeria Police Force after rejecting the bail conditions set for his release.

Sowore was summoned for questioning over his exposé on alleged police extortion in Lagos but refused the bail terms, which required him to present a level 16 civil servant as a surety and surrender his international passport.

The activist described the conditions as “illegal” and a violation of his fundamental rights. His indefinite detention has sparked public outcry and renewed calls for transparency in police practices.

The activist announced his decision via his X handle, saying, “I refuse to participate in any arrangement that undermines my personal integrity.”

His legal counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), supported his position, citing a Court of Appeal ruling in Dasuki v. Director-General, S.S.S., which declared such bail conditions unconstitutional.

Falana argued that involving public servants in bail arrangements is contrary to civil service rules and undermines anti-corruption efforts.

Sowore is being held at a police facility in Abuja, formerly used by the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

“I’d rather remain in custody until this joke is over,” Sowore declared.

The activist’s confrontation with the authorities comes amidst ongoing campaigns by the Take It Back Movement to end police extortion and unlawful roadblocks across the country.