Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has reacted following his release from police custody.
Sowore was arrested on Wednesday, August 6, in Abuja after honouring a police invitation over petitions filed against him.
He was allegedly assaulted during the arrest, sustained injuries, and was moved to an undisclosed location without his lawyers being informed.
The incident drew widespread condemnation from civil society groups and other politicians and activists who described the arrest as a violation of due process and an attack on fundamental rights.
In a video posted on his social media page shortly after his release, Sowore expressed gratitude to supporters who rallied for his freedom and vowed to continue his activism.
“I’ve just been released by the police. We told them they couldn’t sustain this, but they refused to listen. You cannot detain an idea whose time has come,” he said, accusing the Inspector General of Police and his team of committing “a crime against humanity.”
According to Sowore, “the revolution has just started.”
He specifically said: “The Nigerian Police Force has finally capitulated to the demands of our revolutionary movement. After subjecting me to an unjust, unwarranted, and entirely unlawful detention, they had no choice but to release me tonight.
“However, this is not a victory to be celebrated with fanfare. It is not a moment for self-congratulation or eased tongues. It is simply a reminder of what we already knew that when we stand together, when we refuse to bow, even the most oppressive institutions are forced to bend or break!
“I am deeply grateful to every one of you who refused to look away, particularly our strong and ever-firm legal team, the advocates for justice, and the resisters who marched on the streets through this ordeal.
“You all stood firm, raised your voices, and showed up in person, online, and at home in the Diaspora.
“It is your unwavering solidarity that made this outcome inevitable.
“This moment is not an end. It is fuel. It is proof that unity works and that resistance is not futile. The struggle continues, fiercer and more focused than ever, UNTIL WE WIN!”