•Sowore granting press interview at the court premises, today
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has adjourned to March 10, 2026, the hearing in a ₦1.2 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit instituted by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
Justice Mohammed Garba Umar fixed the date today after the defendants, the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun; the Nigeria Police Force (NPF); the Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT); and the AG, failed to appear in court and were not represented by counsel.
The court noted that despite being served with hearing notices, the defendants neither appeared nor offered any explanation for their absence, reports Daily Independent.
Consequently, Justice Umar adjourned the matter but warned that the next date would be for a definite hearing.
The judge further ordered that fresh hearing notices be served on all the defendants to forestall any excuse for further adjournment.
Abubakar Marshall appeared for Sowore, who was present in court, accompanied by supporters.
Sowore filed the suit in 2025 following his arrest and detention on October 23, 2025, over his participation in the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest. He contended that his arrest, detention, and subsequent arraignment on October 24, 2025, were illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional.
In the suit, Sowore alleged that his detention over a peaceful protest amounted to a violation of his fundamental rights, including his right to freedom of movement and dignity of the human person.
He anchored his claims on Sections 34, 35, 37, 41, and 46 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Among other reliefs, Sowore asked the court to declare his arrest and detention illegal, unlawful and unconstitutional, arguing that he did not violate any court order or contravene any law regulating peaceful protests.
He further urged the court to order the 1st to 3rd defendants to pay him ₦200 million as general damages for the alleged violation of his rights, in addition to ₦1 billion as punitive and exemplary damages for what he described as his unlawful arrest, detention, and arraignment.
The activist also sought an order compelling the IGP, the Nigeria Police Force, and the FCT Commissioner of Police to tender a public apology to him in at least three national newspapers.
In addition, Sowore prayed the court to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the IGP and the FCT Commissioner of Police under the Anti-Torture Act, 2017, and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.
The matter comes up for definite hearing on March 10, 2026.
