Heavily armed police officers on Monday sealed off the entrance to the Kuje Magistrate Court in Abuja, blocking access to journalists and lawyers ahead of the court appearance of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore.
The security operatives reportedly arrived early and barricaded all entry points without offering any explanation for the move.
Attempts by members of the press and legal practitioners to enter the court premises were rebuffed, fueling confusion and speculation over the motive behind the restriction.
A team of armed policemen, supported by Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), was sighted at different strategic points around the court ahead of Sowore’s expected bail release, following the fulfillment of his bail conditions.
Earlier, police officers fired teargas within the court premises to disperse lawyers and Sowore’s supporters who had gathered in solidarity with him. Several journalists and lawyers attending other cases were also denied entry, leading to heated confrontations as they demanded access to perform their lawful duties.
Police Hilux patrol vehicles were stationed at various spots outside the court, creating heightened tension and unease in the area. Witnesses also alleged that some residents and passers-by were harassed by security operatives.
Efforts to reach the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, for comments proved unsuccessful as he did not answer calls from journalists.
Sowore had been brutally beaten and re-arrested on Friday, October 24, 2025, by a team of armed policemen led by a senior officer, Ilyasu Barau. The activist was reportedly assaulted and whisked away shortly after being granted bail by Magistrate Abubakar Sai’id, in what was described as a commando-style operation allegedly ordered by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
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