By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was allegedly manhandled by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after a court ordered his remand in custody.
Eyewitnesses and videos circulating on social media showed a tense atmosphere within and around the court premises as security operatives moved to take Sowore into custody.
The development triggered protests from supporters and rights advocates, who accused security personnel of using excessive force during the process.
Reports indicate that operatives physically restrained the activist amid resistance from supporters who attempted to prevent his removal from the court complex. The incident created a dramatic scene that quickly gained traction online and reignited concerns over the treatment of political activists and dissenting voices in Nigeria.
Several civil society groups and legal observers have called for restraint and strict adherence to due process, insisting that every detainee is entitled to humane treatment regardless of the nature of the allegations against them. Some supporters described the incident as intimidation and an attack on democratic freedoms.
Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and a prominent activist, has had several previous confrontations with security agencies over protests and political activities. His arrests and detentions over the years have attracted both national and international attention.
As of the time of filing this report by 9News night, the Department of State Services DSS had not issued an official statement regarding the alleged manhandling incident.
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