Omoyele Sowore, a prominent Nigerian activist and the presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC), has lashed out at the Nigerian Police, accusing them of complicity in the suppression of free speech and civil rights in the country. In a sharply-worded statement posted on social media, Sowore expressed disbelief at the police's willingness to work in tandem with oppressive forces, questioning their integrity and the lengths to which they go in stifling opposition voices.
Sowore's statement comes in the wake of repeated arrests, harassment, and intimidation faced by political opponents, journalists, and activists under the current administration. He specifically targeted the Nigerian Police, saying that even "Satan" would not turn to the force to arrest critics, despite the force's history of collaboration with government officials to suppress dissent.
"Even Satan, with all his wickedness, does not seek the help of the Nigerian Police to arrest his critics," Sowore remarked in his post. "But here, we have a police force that willingly acts as a tool for the government, suppressing every voice that dares to question or oppose them."
The activist went on to highlight the disturbing pattern of arrests, detentions, and legal actions that have been taken against journalists, activists, and political dissidents. Sowore accused the police of betraying their primary responsibility of protecting citizens, instead aligning themselves with those in power to target and punish those who speak out against government policies.
Sowore's comments underscore a larger conversation surrounding the state of Nigeria's democracy, the rule of law, and the treatment of activists and critics of the government. As an outspoken critic of Nigeria’s political establishment, Sowore continues to call for reforms, freedom of speech, and an end to the harassment of individuals who stand against corruption and injustice.