In a significant development, human rights activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore arrived at the Force Intelligence Department Headquarters in Abuja on Monday morning for questioning by police. This visit follows an invitation extended to him after he posted a viral video accusing officers of extortion at a Lagos checkpoint.
Sowore was seen entering the headquarters at 9:58 a.m. to address a series of allegations against him, which include resisting and obstructing public officers, disobeying lawful orders, cyberstalking, and actions purportedly aimed at preventing arrests.
The invitation, issued by the Force Intelligence Department, detailed the ongoing investigation into various charges, highlighting Sowore’s prominent involvement in the case. He was specifically requested to meet with the Deputy Inspector General of Police at the department’s complex.
In response to the police summons, the Take It Back Movement circulated a flier on social media, rallying supporters for a protest against police extortion at the Force Headquarters. The flier quickly gained traction on X (formerly Twitter), featuring images of Sowore alongside the Inspector General of Police and calling on supporters to “Occupy Force Headquarters.”
By early Monday, heavily armed officers in anti-riot gear had barricaded roads leading to the headquarters, reflecting a precautionary stance in anticipation of the planned demonstration. As of now, Sowore remains at the Force Intelligence Department for his scheduled interview, while the situation outside remains tense but under control.