Adeyanju Condemns DSS Conduct, Says Courts Must Remain Sacred

Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has condemned the alleged manhandling and subsequent detention of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, describing the incident as a disturbing affront to the sanctity of the judiciary and the rule of law.

In a statement made available to the media, Adeyanju said the public humiliation of Sowore in court was deeply troubling, stressing that every Nigerian, irrespective of political affiliation, deserves fair and dignified treatment before the law.

According to him, the decision to remand Sowore in prison, particularly after he sought time to engage new legal representation, was unfortunate and capable of creating the impression that the state is determined to silence dissenting voices.

Adeyanju further expressed concern over reports that security operatives physically accosted and manhandled Sowore within the court premises, insisting that the courtroom is a sacred institution that must never be turned into an arena for intimidation or displays of force.

“The court is not a nightclub or a theatre of intimidation; it is a hallowed temple of justice. Any arrest deemed necessary should be carried out with dignity and in strict compliance with the rule of law,” he said.

He warned that incidents of this nature risk portraying Nigeria as a country that pays insufficient regard to democratic principles and the rule of law.

The activist called on President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to ensure that justice is administered fairly and transparently, without creating the impression that political opponents are being persecuted or pushed out of the democratic space.

Adeyanju maintained that Nigerians must be allowed to freely participate in the political process, contest elections, and express their views, while all disputes are resolved strictly in accordance with the law.