Omoyele Sowore, the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has declined the bail conditions set by the Nigeria Police Force, choosing instead to remain in custody.
Sowore, who appeared at the police force headquarters in Abuja on Monday for questioning, rejected conditions requiring him to surrender his international passport and present a level 17 civil servant as a guarantor.
Speaking after his appearance, the activist criticized the police for failing to clarify the charges against him, describing the process as a “joke.”
The police had summoned Sowore over allegations of cyberstalking, negligence, and intimidation, reportedly connected to a viral video in which he confronted officers at a checkpoint in Lagos.
Accompanied by his legal team, Sowore said he refused to write a statement during questioning due to the lack of specificity in the allegations. He further alleged that the police were planning to detain him and transfer him to Lagos for what he termed a “kangaroo trial.”
“The Nigeria Police Force has requested that I deposit my international passport and provide a level 17 civil servant as a guarantor for bail, but I have declined these conditions,” Sowore stated. “I have instead offered to remain in police custody pending when the joke is over.”
The activist’s refusal underscores his continued criticism of the police and judicial system, which he alleges are being used to intimidate dissenting voices. As of now, Sowore remains in custody, awaiting further developments.