A tense scene unfolded on Monday morning at the Federal High Court, Abuja, as police officers reportedly used tear gas and force to disperse supporters of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who had gathered peacefully within the court premises to show solidarity during his court appearance.
Eyewitnesses told Symfoni News that dozens of Sowore’s supporters, under the Take It Back Movement, arrived early to await proceedings when armed policemen stormed the premises and began ordering everyone to leave without explanation.
“We came in our numbers as early as 7 a.m. and sat quietly waiting for the court to sit. Suddenly, about fifteen armed policemen came shouting at us to leave. We tried to talk to them respectfully, but they refused to listen,” said Faith Orin, Assistant Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, Abuja Chapter.
She described how the situation escalated rapidly:
“While we were still speaking, more police vans arrived—nearly 50 more officers. They started pushing and tear-gassing us. Some comrades were shocked with electric tasers. They were even shooting tear gas directly at our bodies, not into the air.”
Another eyewitness, who gave his name as Comrade Chris, said the police action was led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the area. According to him, the DPO instructed officers to “use force” if supporters refused to vacate the premises.
“They came with armored vehicles and Hilux trucks, chasing and beating people who were sitting quietly. A lady was pushed and harassed. It was clear they had orders to clear everyone out,” he recounted.
The witnesses said no protest was taking place at the time, emphasizing that the supporters were merely seated within the court compound awaiting the day’s proceedings.
“We were not carrying placards or chanting. We were just there peacefully. Yet, they treated us as if we were criminals,” one supporter lamented.
Videos and photographs from the scene reportedly show heavy police presence, with armored personnel carriers positioned around the court and officers patrolling with rifles.
Activists condemned the police action as a “violation of citizens’ constitutional rights” to freedom of assembly and movement, calling it a disturbing trend under the current administration.
“It’s unfortunate that a government that once claimed to champion activism now suppresses peaceful citizens. If this can happen in a court premises, where then is safe?” another supporter asked.
This is not the first time police have clashed with Sowore’s supporters during his court appearances. Similar incidents have been recorded in the past, often involving arrests, injuries, and the use of tear gas against peaceful gatherings.
As of press time, neither the Nigeria Police Force nor the Federal High Court authorities had issued an official statement on the incident.
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