The arrest of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has been condemned by Amnesty International, which described the action as yet another attempt by Nigerian authorities to silence dissenting voices.
The organisation, in a statement released on Thursday, said Sowore’s arrest occurred barely days after the detention of lawyer Aloy Ejimakor and Emmanuel Kanu.
According to Amnesty International, both Ejimakor and Kanu had participated in a peaceful protest demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
“Once again, Nigerian authorities have displayed utter disregard for human rights and a longstanding demonization of peaceful assembly,” the statement read.
The rights group called for the “immediate and unconditional release” of Sowore, Ejimakor, and Kanu, stressing that the ongoing repression of activists must cease.
“President Bola Tinubu government’s utter disdain for the rule of law must end,” Amnesty International declared, adding that the continued persecution of individuals for expressing dissent undermines democracy.
It further urged the government to desist from “using the security agents and judiciary as a tool for persecuting people who voice dissenting opinions, challenge abuse and call for accountability.”
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to continually monitor the situation and hold Nigerian authorities accountable for violations of human rights and freedom of expression.