Police Deploy Teargas, Bar Journalists and Lawyers From Court Ahead of Sowore’s Appearance
There was tension at the Kuje Magistrate Court in Abuja on Monday as heavily armed police officers barricaded the entrance, preventing lawyers, journalists, and members of the public from accessing the premises.
The operatives, who arrived in the early hours, sealed off all access points without explanation, sparking confusion and speculation over the motive behind the move.
The development came ahead of the expected bail release of human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, who had reportedly perfected his bail conditions.
An eyewitness told SaharaReporters, “We saw a detachment of armed policemen with Armoured Personnel Carriers mounted at strategic points around the court.”
Lawyers and associates of the Publisher of Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who had gathered in solidarity, were dispersed after police reportedly fired teargas canisters within the court premises.
The action also affected other lawyers and journalists who were in court for separate cases. Many were turned back at the gate, leading to heated altercations as they insisted on carrying out their legitimate duties.
Police Hilux vans and APCs were stationed at different locations around the court, heightening tension in the area. Security operatives reportedly harassed residents and passers-by.
Naija News recalls that this comes after police officers in Abuja on Friday, October 24, 2025, re-arrested Sowore, moments after the Kuje Magistrate Court granted him bail.
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