Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has been transferred to the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja following his appearance before the Federal High Court on Monday.
Officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) arrived at the court premises in a prison transport vehicle, popularly known as a “Black Maria,” and formally took custody of Sowore from operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The activist was subsequently conveyed to the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the continuation of legal proceedings against him.
Sowore emerged from an undisclosed location within the court complex at about 2:10 p.m., escorted by DSS personnel. Addressing a crowd of supporters gathered at the court, he expressed optimism despite the circumstances and urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of a better Nigeria.
“I want all of you to remain resolute in the struggle for a better society,” Sowore told his supporters. “We must continue to demand accountability and justice for Nigerians.”
The former presidential candidate also confirmed that he would return to court on Wednesday when his trial resumes.
Commenting on the manner of his transportation, Sowore questioned why he was being moved in a prison van, arguing that public officials accused of embezzling public funds are often treated differently.
“People accused of looting public resources are usually transported in more comfortable vehicles, yet I am being taken in a Black Maria,” he said. “I would have preferred to be moved in a Hilux vehicle.”
Despite his remand, Sowore reiterated his commitment to activism and advocacy, insisting that he would continue to speak out against what he described as poor leadership and policies that threaten the future of younger generations.
“I will continue to demand accountability from those in power and fight for the future of coming generations,” he declared.
The transfer to Kuje Prison comes as legal proceedings involving the activist continue before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
