Police’s arrest of Sowore shameful, abuse of power—-CUPP
2 min read
By Chris Ochayi
The Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, has in strong term condemned the arrest of a former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore by the Nigerian Police.
National Secretary of the CUPP, Chief Peter Ameh, who said this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, pointed out that Sowore’s arrest flouts Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution.
He said using the police to intimidate and oppress citizens must be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians.
According to him, “We strongly condemn the arrest of Omoyele Sowore by the Nigerian Police, an act that flouts Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the fundamental right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and share ideas without interference.
“This arrest is not only unjust but also a disturbing misuse of police power, turning an institution meant to protect Nigerians into a tool for oppression and personal vendettas.This arrest is a blatant abuse of power and an affront to the principles of justice and accountability enshrined in the constitution.
“The Nigerian Police owe Nigerians a clear explanation for Sowore’s arrest. Denying him his right to bail is indefensible and further exposes the misuse of authority to silence dissent.
“We demand his immediate and unconditional release, and if the Inspector General believes there is a case to answer, Sowore should be charged to court without delay.
“Moreover, the alarming rise of an individual to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police in just 10 years raises serious questions about favoritism and systemic corruption. This demands a public inquiry to ensure transparency and fairness in the promotion process within the Nigerian Police Force.
“Using the police to intimidate and oppress citizens must be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians.
“Accountability is a collective responsibility, and we must stand against any actions that undermine the right to free expression. The Nigerian Police must cease being an instrument of oppression and uphold the rule of law.”
