The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called for the immediate release of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, condemning his continued detention by the Nigerian Police Force.
Sowore was taken into custody on Monday after rejecting the bail conditions imposed by the police. His detention followed his appearance in response to an invitation concerning a video he recorded during an altercation with police officers on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Access Road in Lagos.
In a statement released on Tuesday, RULAAC expressed deep concern over what it described as stringent and illegal bail conditions. The statement, signed by the centre’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, highlighted broader issues regarding law enforcement’s adherence to legal standards and respect for citizens’ rights.
“The insistence on conditions that have been declared illegal, especially in the presence of a respected lawyer like Femi Falana and a relevant court ruling, raises questions about the police’s respect for judicial authority,” RULAAC stated.
The advocacy group urged the police to uphold the rule of law, emphasizing that their actions should align with legal standards to maintain public trust and legitimacy.
“The Nigeria Police should immediately release Sowore in line with legal provisions. This would be a step towards reaffirming citizens’ rights and restoring faith in law enforcement agencies. It is essential for all authorities to act within the framework of the law to protect democratic principles and individual freedoms,” the statement added.