Sowore made this known in a statement on the outcome of court proceedings held on Wednesday, describing the police’s absence as a further demonstration of the institution’s disregard for the rule of law.
Former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force failed to appear in court or send legal representation in a civil lawsuit he filed over his arrest, trial, and detention following the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest of October 20, 2025.
Sowore made this known in a statement on the outcome of court proceedings held on Wednesday, describing the police’s absence as a further demonstration of the institution’s disregard for the rule of law.
The lawsuit seeks a public apology, financial compensation and enforcement action against the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, whom Sowore called “illegally appointed Inspector General of Nigeria Police Force,” the Nigeria Police Force, and the Minister of Justice/Attorney General of the Federation.
The suit arose from Sowore’s arrest and subsequent incarceration at Kuje Correctional Centre after he participated in the October 20, 2025 protest demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
My Statement on the Court Proceedings Today Regarding the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest of October 20, 2025, my illegal arrest, trial and improper imprisonment at Kuje Prison-A Civil Lawsuit seeking apology, financial compensation and enforcement action against illegal IGP, Kayode… pic.twitter.com/xG6yTpU8ja
— Omoyele Sowore (@sowore) January 14, 2026
According to Sowore, the matter came up in court with his legal team, led by Marshal D. F. Abubakar, fully prepared to proceed.
However, the defendants, particularly the police, were conspicuously absent.
“At today’s court sitting, the Police neither appeared in court nor were they represented by counsel,” Sowore stated.
“After reviewing the circumstances, the presiding judge, Justice Umar, agreed with our position and formally noted their absence.”
He explained that Justice Umar, having taken judicial notice of the failure of the defendants to appear or offer any legal excuse, ruled that the matter had reached a stage where it could proceed without further delay.
“His Lordship consequently deemed the matter ready for the next stage and ruled that at the next adjourned date, we will proceed to adopt our written briefs and claims,” Sowore said. “The court will thereafter fix a definite date for judgment.”
The activist reiterated that the lawsuit centres on his illegal arrest, unlawful trial and improper imprisonment at Kuje Prison, as well as the broader crackdown on peaceful protesters during the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow demonstration.
He maintained that the protest of October 20, 2025 was peaceful and constitutionally guaranteed, insisting that the actions of the police amounted to abuse of power and a violation of fundamental human rights.
“We remain confident and committed to pursuing justice and accountability for the unlawful actions carried out against peaceful protesters during that historic protest,” Sowore added.