The Nigeria Police Force has denied torturing human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore while in custody.
DAILY POST reports that viral still picture of the activist with bandaged arm went viral on Thursday purporting alleged torture by police officers.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate, who is currently under investigation following petitions on alleged criminal offences such as forgery, cyberstalking, and other infractions, was arrested on Wednesday when he honoured an invitation at the Force Headquarters.
He was, however, released on Friday night.
Addressing alleged misinformation regarding the torture, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a statement on Friday night, said the activist was never “subjected to any form of inhuman treatment while in custody”.
According to Adejobi, the viral photo of Sowore’s bandaged arm was “mischievously presented to mislead the public and stir unwarranted outrage”.
He explained that the bandage was part of Sowore’s personal belongings at the time he honoured the Police’s invitation prior to his arrest and detention.
“In any case, upon receiving the report that Mr. Sowore was later seen wearing the bandage while in custody, the Inspector-General of Police promptly ordered an internal investigation to ascertain how he had access to it during detention—particularly in light of his consistent refusal to undergo medical examination by the independent teams deployed by the Police.
“This proactive step underscores the IGP’s unwavering commitment to transparency, professionalism, and strict adherence to established custodial protocols,” he said.
The Force PRO added that the activist “is expected to appear before a court of competent jurisdiction in the coming days to answer to the accusations in a lawful and transparent judicial process”.
