CONYL slams ‘unlawful’ arrest of Sowore, calls for unconditional release


The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, CONYL, has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Nigerian activist, Omoyele Sowore, from police detention.
DAILY POST reports that the activist is currently in police custody following a petition of alleged forgery and criminal defamation.
He was invited for questioning at the Force Headquarters on Thursday, where he was later detained.
Subsequent reports indicated that Sowore was moved from the Force Headquarters to an unknown destination, fueling uproar across the country.
Reacting, CONYL, in a statement issued by its President General, Goodluck Ibem, condemned the “unlawful detention, brutalization, and inhumane treatment” of the activist.
The group lamented that the activist has been held for “over three days without charge—an act that grossly violates his fundamental human rights and the rule of law.
“This unjust detention is a clear abuse of power, an affront to democracy, and a dangerous signal to citizens who believe in peaceful civic engagement and justice.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and international human rights conventions guarantee the right to liberty, dignity, and fair treatment under the law.
“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Sowore. We also call for an independent investigation into the acts of dehumanization and assault perpetrated by officers involved in this shameful incident.
“CONYL will not remain silent while democratic values are trampled. We urge the Nigerian Police Force and relevant authorities to uphold the law they are sworn to protect.”
CONYL slams ‘unlawful’ arrest of Sowore, calls for unconditional release