By Sodiq Adelakun
Amnesty International has condemned the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, over alleged threats issued against human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Wednesday, the global human rights organization described the police commissioner’s remarks and the declaration of Sowore as wanted as “outrageous” and “a blatant act of intimidation.”
Amnesty International accused the Lagos police command of abusing its powers and showing disregard for fundamental human rights. It said the threats amounted to a deliberate attempt to silence dissent and discourage peaceful activism in Nigeria.
“The CP must do his actual job, which is facilitating and upholding the right to peaceful protest,” Amnesty International stated.
The organisation reminded the police that Nigerians have a constitutional right to express their opinions and stage peaceful demonstrations without fear of harassment or persecution.
It further urged Commissioner Jimoh to immediately retract his statements and ensure that the police operate within the bounds of the law and respect for human rights.
Also, The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has issued an order restraining the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, from declaring human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted.
The court’s decision followed a suit filed by Sowore against the Nigeria Police Force, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and CP Moshood Jimoh, accusing them of acting unlawfully and beyond their constitutional powers.
Speaking after the court session, Sowore described the ruling as “a victory for the rule of law and a warning against impunity.”
He revealed that he had also filed a ₦500 million lawsuit against the Police Force, the IGP, and the Lagos CP for what he called a reckless abuse of power and defamation of character.
“No one, not even the police, is above the law,” Sowore said. “Declaring citizens wanted without due process is tyranny, and we must put an end to it.”
The court adjourned further proceedings to a later date to hear substantive arguments on Sowore’s claim for damages.