Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticized the police for allegedly attacking peaceful protesters demanding the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu. Speaking on the ‘Prime Time’ programme on Arise Television, Sowore said the law enforcement officers targeted them simply because they were peaceful.

Sowore argued that if the protesters were criminals or bandits, the police would have ignored them. He described the police’s actions as a direct attempt to suppress citizens exercising their democratic rights. According to him, peaceful demonstrators should not be met with violence.

The activist, who organized the protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Monday, revealed that the demonstration was widespread. He explained that thousands of people gathered at six locations across Abuja, including Utako, Gudu, and Apo, before moving to the FCT police command, where they were reportedly tear-gassed.

Sowore emphasized the commitment of the protesters to non-violence, stating that they chose a peaceful approach despite the harsh treatment. He warned that future generations might refuse to tolerate such treatment from authorities.

The activist’s statement highlights growing concerns about the treatment of peaceful protesters in Nigeria. Citizens and human rights organizations continue to call for accountability and restraint in handling demonstrations.