SOWORE CRITICISES POLICE OVER ARREST OF BLOGGERS LINKED TO ELUMELU DIVORCE REPORT

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By;Tajudeen Aminat

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has urged the Nigeria Police Force to release three individuals arrested over alleged defamatory online reports involving Tony Elumelu, Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA).

In a Facebook post on Monday, Sowore argued that publishing claims about a public figure’s marital status should not be treated as a criminal offence that warrants arrest or detention.

He maintained that such matters fall under civil law and do not justify police intervention or repression. He specifically called for the release of Kingsley Akunemeihe, Chigozie Success Ihebom, and John Surpruchi Nwanorue, who were reportedly arrested in connection with the publication.

Sowore’s remarks came after UBA dismissed the viral claim alleging that Elumelu had divorced his wife, describing it as false, malicious, and defamatory. The bank insisted the report was intended to mislead the public and damage reputations.

UBA also confirmed that the matter had been reported to law enforcement authorities, leading to the arrest of individuals allegedly linked to the creation and spread of the content. It warned that those sharing the publication should take it down and preserve related materials for possible legal action.

The development has sparked wider debate on free speech, defamation laws, and the role of law enforcement in online publications.