The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the arrest and reported brutal treatment of activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore by officers of the Nigeria Police Force, describing the incident as a gross violation of human rights and democratic principles.
In a statement issued Thursday morning, the NLC expressed deep concern over reports that Sowore was forcefully removed from his cell at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja, physically assaulted, and allegedly had his arm broken by officers who refused him access to legal representation.
“We are alarmed by this crude show of force. It is unacceptable that in a democratic nation, law enforcement agents would brutalize a citizen without regard for due process, dignity, or legal counsel,” the NLC stated.
The Congress emphasized that peaceful activism, dissent, and journalism are not crimes, and that Nigeria’s democratic institutions must not become tools for repression.
Calling on the Inspector General of Police and relevant authorities to investigate the incident immediately, the NLC demanded:
1. The unconditional release of Omoyele Sowore.
2. Disciplinary action against the officers involved.
3. Respect for human rights and the rule of law by all security agencies.
“We will not fold our arms while tyranny thrives. An injury to one is an injury to all,” the statement concluded.
The NLC warned that if the situation is not addressed swiftly, it may mobilize nationwide solidarity actions to demand justice and accountability.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage on social media and among civil society groups, with many echoing the call for Sowore’s immediate release and protection of civil liberties in Nigeria.
Press Release:
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
