The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) and former senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, have strongly condemned the detention of activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore, describing it as a calculated move to intimidate dissenters and settle personal scores within the Nigeria Police Force.

In a statement issued by CHSR President, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, the group said Sowore’s detention was politically motivated and emblematic of a broader abuse of power by the police.

 “CHSR considers the actions of the Nigeria Police Force as a brazen display of institutional double standards, abuse of power, and a calculated attempt to silence dissenting voices,” the statement read.

The organisation criticised the basis of Sowore’s arrest, reportedly linked to defamation and forgery allegations involving a police officer, as a conflict of interest. It said the police had no business acting as both “accuser and enforcer” in a case where one of its own personnel is involved.

 “No one should be a judge in their own case. The police acting as both complainant and investigator is a direct violation of due process and a blatant conflict of interest,” CHSR stated.

The group argued that Sowore’s consistent criticism of police brutality had made him a repeated target of the security institution.

 “It is no coincidence that Comrade Sowore, a fearless critic of police excesses, is once again the subject of harassment by the same institution. This is nothing short of a politically motivated witch-hunt.”

CHSR also noted that Sowore voluntarily honoured the police invitation and showed respect for the law, yet was still detained, an action they say further undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system.

The organisation demanded his immediate and unconditional release, warning that history would not be kind to institutions that suppress justice and democratic freedoms.

 “We reject and condemn, in the strongest terms, the ongoing double standards, selective justice, and impunity of the Nigeria Police Force. History will not forget where each institution stood when justice was on trial,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, Senator Shehu Sani, in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), said Sowore’s repeated arrests amount to an attack on democracy and freedom of expression.

 “The incessant arrest and gaoling of Sowore is unconscionable. His right to freedom of speech and protest should be respected in line with the constitution of our country,” Sani said.

He further stated that any claims against Sowore should be addressed with counter-evidence, not arrests.

 “If there is anything he says that is untrue, it should be countered with facts, not with handcuffs. Sowore is known as a non-partisan, outspoken activist who criticises without fear or favour,” he added.

The latest development has drawn outrage from civil society groups and rights activists who accuse the police of shrinking civic space and eroding constitutional liberties.