Omoyele Sowore Released After Arrest By Nigerian Authorities

Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC) and a vocal critic of the Nigerian government, has been released by the Nigerian Immigration Service, with his international passport returned.

Sowore was detained on Sunday morning upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from Washington Dulles International Airport. His arrest occurred shortly after landing at approximately 9:43 WAT, following a directive allegedly issued by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Sowore had previously revealed that his international passport had been confiscated, sparking concerns about his arrest. His detention came as no surprise, as reports indicated that the DSS, under the leadership of its newly appointed Director-General, Adeola Ajayi, had instructed airport security and immigration officials to intercept and detain him.

The arrest was reportedly linked to Sowore’s involvement in the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, a 10-day demonstration against the Nigerian government’s policies. Following his release, Sowore resumed his outspoken stance on governance issues, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for political reforms in the country.