Pan-African Group Slams Police Over Sowore’s Detention, Demands Respect for Human Rights in Nigeria
Pan-Africanist movement State55 has strongly condemned the Nigeria Police Force over the recent detention and assault of human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.
In a statement signed by Acting President Tse Anye Kevin and Vice President-Diaspora Baruti Katembo, the group expressed outrage at what it described as a “barbaric” act and a blatant violation of human rights.
According to the statement, Sowore was detained on August 6, 2025, after honoring an invitation by the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit in Abuja. The following day, officers reportedly stormed his detention facility, assaulted him, and broke his right arm.
State55 decried the actions of the police, urging Nigerian authorities to uphold human rights and embrace professionalism in dealing with citizens.
“We strongly condemn this barbaric act, unlawful detention, and continued harassment of Mr. Sowore by the Nigerian Police Force. We urge the Nigerian police and the government to act professionally and uphold human rights at all times,” the group declared.
Reaffirming its vision of a united Africa that protects fundamental freedoms, State55 stressed the importance of safeguarding human dignity and freedom of expression.
The group called on the Nigerian government to handle human rights concerns with civility and accountability, emphasizing its commitment to the dignity, freedom, and unity of African people globally.
