Court Restrains Lagos Police from Arresting Sowore

The Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained the state police command and its commissioner from arresting or harassing Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and human rights activist.

Justice Musa Kakaki issued the interim order yesterday after considering an application by Sowore seeking protection of his fundamental rights.

The court directed the Lagos Commissioner of Police and other respondents “to desist from harassing, intimidating, threatening with arrest, or declaring the applicant wanted pending the determination of the substantive suit.”

In the suit, Sowore argued that he had not received any formal invitation or warrant of arrest before being declared wanted by Commissioner Moshood Jimoh. He described the police action as unlawful, saying it violated his constitutional rights to dignity, liberty, and freedom of movement.

According to his affidavit, Sowore said the declaration had tarnished his reputation as a journalist and activist. He urged the court to intervene urgently to prevent continued harassment.

“I am not aware of any offence committed by me, and I was never invited by the police before the declaration made on November 3, 2025,” he stated.

The dispute began after Commissioner Jimoh accused Sowore of inciting unrest in Oworonshoki, Lagos, during a protest over building demolitions. The police chief alleged that Sowore’s presence in the area was meant to provoke residents and disrupt public peace.

However, with the new court order, the police are now restrained from taking any action against Sowore until the main case is heard and determined.

Reacting to the ruling, Sowore commended the judiciary for standing firm on justice.

“Many people doubt the judiciary, but justice depends on citizens insisting that the right thing be done,” he said. “My activism has always been about fairness and freedom for all Nigerians. I thank the court for this courageous decision.”