There was a mild drama at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday as security operatives reportedly arrested human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, shortly after he met with detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore, who had attended the court session in solidarity with Kanu, was seen in a viral video earlier embracing the IPOB leader. In the clip, Sowore told Kanu, “Mazi, you will be out!” while Kanu responded with a smile, saying, “Good to see you.”
Moments later, Sowore posted another video on his Facebook showing how he was whisked away by security operatives .
In the video, men in the Nigerian police uniform were seen. Sowore could also be heard telling the officers that his lawyer must go with him and his car should also be allowed to drive behind the police van.
Details surrounding his arrest remain unknown as of the time of filing this report.
Sowore has been a vocal critic of Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention and one of the few prominent figures outside the IPOB structure consistently calling for his freedom.
On Monday, October 20, 2025, he led protesters in Abuja demanding Kanu’s release and urged the Federal Government to respect previous court rulings granting the IPOB leader bail.
Thursday’s hearing also saw a major twist in Kanu’s case, as the separatist leader announced his decision to personally defend himself following the withdrawal of his legal team. The court adjourned proceedings to allow Kanu prepare for self-representation on Friday.
