Adeyanju Slams DSS Over Sowore Courtroom Arrest, Says Court Is Not a Nightclub but a Sacred Place

Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has condemned what he described as the humiliating treatment of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, by security operatives in court, insisting that the courtroom is a sacred institution that must not be turned into a venue for intimidation and displays of force.

Adeyanju said the decision to remand Sowore in prison, despite his request for time to secure new legal representation, was unfortunate and raised concerns about fairness in the administration of justice. He stressed that regardless of political affiliation, every Nigerian deserves equal protection under the law and should be treated with dignity throughout legal proceedings.

He further described reports that security operatives physically accosted and manhandled Sowore within the court premises as disturbing, noting that courts must remain insulated from actions capable of intimidating litigants, lawyers and members of the public. According to him, where an arrest is necessary, it should be carried out in a professional and dignified manner.

Adeyanju warned that incidents of this nature risk damaging Nigeria’s democratic image and creating the perception that political opponents are being targeted. He called on President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to ensure that justice is administered transparently and in accordance with the rule of law, while safeguarding the rights of all citizens to participate freely in the democratic process.