By Abubakar Suleiman The Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria has strongly condemned the arrest and alleged ill-tre...
By Abubakar Suleiman
The Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria has strongly condemned the arrest and alleged ill-treatment of journalist and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, by the Nigerian Police, calling for his immediate and unconditional release.
In a press statement issued on Friday, August 8, and signed by Comrade Muhammad Halilu, the group decried what it described as “arbitrary detention, harassment, and intimidation” of the activist, and accused the authorities of perpetuating a culture of impunity and silencing of dissenting voices.
"This latest assault on his dignity, culminating in his unlawful detention, denial of access to his legal counsel, and the infliction of a severe injury on his left hand, is a stark reminder of the deepening culture of impunity within the Nigerian state,” the statement said.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, has faced multiple arrests and charges in recent years, often linked to his vocal criticism of the Nigerian government and calls for reform.
According to the Academic Forum, Sowore’s treatment is “emblematic of the disturbing lengths to which the Nigerian government is willing to go in silencing peaceful dissent.”
The Forum, operating under the guidance of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, maintained that “oppression is oppression regardless of the victim’s religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation,” and urged all citizens and organisations to rise in defense of justice.
“We must stand against injustice wherever it rears its head and defend the oppressed regardless of their background,” the statement added, echoing the teachings of Sheikh Zakzaky.
The group also demanded that Sowore be granted immediate access to medical care following injuries reportedly sustained while in police custody.
In its appeal, the Islamic Movement called on civil society groups, human rights organisations, and the international community to speak out against what it termed a grave injustice.
“Silence in the face of oppression is complicity. Instead of using official institutions as a tool to stifle dissent, the authorities should pay attention to constructive criticism,” it stated.
The Academic Forum reaffirmed its commitment to upholding justice, truth, and civil liberties for all Nigerians, vowing to continue opposing tyranny in all forms.
“Oppression to one is oppression to all,” the group concluded.
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