Human rights activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore has been released from police custody after his arrest earlier this week.

Confirming his release in a post on X, Sowore accused the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police of unlawful detention, adding that his freedom was “nothing to celebrate” while the fight for justice continues.

“The Nigeria Police Force and its illegal IGP have capitulated to the demands of the revolutionary movement. I have been released from unjust and unlawful detention. This is no cause for celebration, but I thank everyone who stood firm,” he wrote.

Sowore had arrived at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday in response to a police invitation over alleged forgery and inciting disturbance. He was detained the following day, drawing widespread condemnation from rights groups, political figures, and protesters.

Amnesty International alleged he was assaulted in custody, sustaining a serious hand injury, and called for his immediate medical treatment.

Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, described the detention as “a miscarriage of justice and abuse of state power”, noting that Sowore posed no flight risk.

Protesters in Abuja and Lagos on Thursday demanded his release, accusing police of intimidation.