Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) and activist, Omoyele Sowore, has been released by the Department of State Services (DSS), following his arrest at Murtala Muhammad International Airport in Lagos on Sunday. The arrest occurred shortly after Sowore’s arrival, sparking immediate concern among his supporters and human rights advocates.
The activist had previously raised alarms on Saturday, claiming security agencies were planning to arrest and frame him. He shared his concerns via social media, stating, “Yeah! All around in my home town, they’re tryin’ to track me down… They say they want to bring me in guilty. However, Babylon must fall!”
Sowore’s fears materialized when DSS operatives detained him at the airport. However, the detention was brief, and he was released shortly thereafter, with his passport returned.
Constitutional lawyer Deji Adeyanju confirmed the release, stating, “Omoyele Sowore released, passport returned to him. Aluta continua,” indicating the ongoing nature of Sowore’s activism and resistance.
Sowore, known for his outspoken stance on government accountability and social justice, has faced numerous confrontations with Nigerian authorities in recent years. His arrest and quick release underscore the continued tensions between activists and the state.