Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has rejected the bail conditions set by the Nigeria Police Force after he was invited for questioning regarding a viral video exposing alleged extortion by police officers on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Access Road in Lagos.
In a post on his X account on Monday, Sowore stated, “I have rejected a bail condition asking me to present a level 17 Permanent Secretary. Instead, I have offered to remain in police custody pending when the joke is over with.”
The police allege that Sowore is under investigation for offenses including “resisting and obstructing public officers, disobedience to lawful order, acts intended to cause grievous harm or prevent arrest, compelling action by intimidation, reckless and negligent acts, refusal to assist public servants, and cyberstalking.”
Earlier, Sowore revealed that the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) of the Federal Intelligence Department (FID), Dasuki Galandachi, had informed him of an instruction to grant him bail pending the conclusion of investigations. However, Sowore emphasized that he would not accept bail conditions that compromise his dignity or integrity.
“The DIG informed me that I would be granted bail, but I made it clear that I will not agree to conditions that undermine my innocence or dignity. If unreasonable conditions are imposed, I prefer to remain in detention until I am charged to court,” he said.
The controversy began after Sowore published a video showing alleged extortion at a police roadblock. He later described his engagement with the police as an “interview,” stating that the authorities relied on vague accusations and rehashed information.
“When I asked them to identify the location of the alleged crime, they vaguely said it was along the airport road. I declined to provide a written statement, as there was no defined crime to investigate,” Sowore said.
He also alleged that the police might plan to transfer him to Lagos for what he termed a “kangaroo trial.” Despite this, Sowore maintained his readiness to face any consequences, reiterating his commitment to fighting for justice.
“Our fight for justice will continue. I am not intimidated, and I remain steadfast in my resolve,” he added.
Sowore’s criticism of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, whom he described as an “illegal IG,” has reportedly unsettled the police hierarchy, further fueling tensions surrounding his case.
Sowore concluded by expressing optimism about the fight for justice, vowing to persist in his advocacy.
