Omoyele Sowore, former presidential candidate and human rights activist, appeared openly at Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch for its International Human Rights Day event, defying a declaration by the Lagos State Police that he was wanted.

The police, led by Commissioner Moshood Jimoh, had previously named Sowore wanted over alleged public disturbances linked to protests against the controversial demolition of homes in Oworonshoki, an operation widely criticised as unlawful and inhumane. Rights groups have labelled the notice as politically motivated and vindictive.

At the NBA event, Sowore participated in a panel on “rights to safety and security, and addressing mass killings in Nigeria”, alongside Commodore Kunle Olawunmi (rtd) and Kuti Ezebiro, moderated by Justice Fadipe. Speaking on his participation, Sowore said:

“I moved across Lagos in full stride, attended the NBA event just meters from the Lagos Police Command, and the discussion was vibrant and engaging. Special thanks to Barrister Joseph Opute for facilitating my attendance.”

Afterwards, Sowore attended the Gani Fawehinmi Integrity Award at the University of Lagos, hosted by HEDA. He was warmly received by students and former student leaders, highlighting his resilience and long-standing activism.

Sowore has also filed a ₦500 million lawsuit against the Nigeria Police Force, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and Commissioner Moshood Jimoh, alleging violations of his constitutional rights to dignity, liberty, and freedom of movement. The suit challenges the police declaration of him as “wanted” without prior invitation, warrant, or charge, and seeks urgent relief including an injunction restraining the police from harassment or further declarations against him.

In his affidavit, Sowore stressed that he is law-abiding and would comply with any legitimate police invitation. He emphasised that the police’s actions have severely impaired his constitutional rights, and the court is being asked to intervene to prevent further intimidation.