The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), along with other human rights advocates and civil society organizations, has called for the immediate and unconditional release of journalist and activist Omoyele Sowore, who was reportedly arrested on Wednesday by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force.

Sources say Sowore was detained in connection with his continued advocacy and exercise of free speech, prompting widespread criticism from rights groups who argue that his arrest amounts to persecution for the peaceful exercise of his fundamental freedoms.

Legal experts and civil society leaders contend that the arrest violates provisions of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

They also cite Nigeria’s international legal commitments under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights both of which prohibit arbitrary detention.

“There is no justification for arresting or detaining anyone solely for peacefully exercising their constitutionally and internationally recognized rights,” said a legal analyst, describing the situation as a breach of both domestic and international law.

Advocacy groups are also demanding that all charges against Sowore be dropped, describing the arrest as a “travesty of justice” and urging the government to demonstrate respect for human rights and the rule of law.

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Police Force had not issued an official statement clarifying the reason for Sowore’s arrest.