The Nigeria Police Force has refuted allegations that activist Omoyele Sowore was tortured while in custody, insisting his arrest was lawful and tied to “credible, corroborated” allegations including forgery and cyberstalking.
In a statement referenced lCZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/483, the Force said Sowore was granted bail within the 48-hour constitutional window and is expected in court soon. Police maintained that the viral image of him with a bandaged arm was misleading, claiming it was part of his belongings before detention.
The statement noted that two independent medical teams—on August 7 and 8—were denied access by Sowore, despite orders from the Inspector-General of Police for an examination. The Force stressed it operates a zero-tolerance policy on torture, in line with the Anti-Torture Act, and that Sowore’s detention is backed by a valid court order.
The Police urged media and civil society to avoid “sensationalism” and reiterated that no one is above the law.
