Lagos Commissioner of Police alleges Omoyele Sowore does not possess an NYSC certificate claiming evasion of mandatory service The controversial statement made during a television interview sparks reaction from human rights advocate Prof Chidi Odinkalu adding a new dimension to the ongoing legal and political conflict between Sowore and the Police Command .
A New Twist in the Sowore Police Saga
The ongoing tension between Nigerian human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters Omoyele Sowore and the Lagos State Police Command escalated dramatically following an interview where the states Commissioner of Police CP Olohundare Jimoh made a pointed claim about the activists eligibility for public criticism During his appearance on a national television programme the CP alleged that Sowore does not possess a National Youth Service Corps NYSC certificate a mandatory requirement for Nigerian graduates claiming he evaded the national service .
This controversial declaration made in the context of the police declaring Sowore wanted for alleged public incitement immediately injected a fresh and highly publicised dimension to the conflict It also drew significant commentary from influential figures most notably the prominent legal scholar and human rights advocate Professor Chidi Odinkalu whose reaction underscores the gravity and potential legal implications of the police chiefs statement .
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The Lagos CPs Assertions and Rationale
The Lagos Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh made the bold claim while responding to Sowores earlier criticism of his competence following the police commands declaration that the activist was wanted The police chief emphatically defended his competence and subsequently launched the NYSC certificate allegation .
I want to make it abundantly clear that Sowore doesnt have NYSC certificate because of punitive reason Jimoh stated during the live television interview .
He further elaborated on the punitive basis for the alleged lack of the certificate stating He was posted to Adamawa and he was evasive he never did the service .
The CPs primary argument was that a person allegedly unqualified to possess the NYSC certificate is equally unqualified to criticise law enforcement or mobilise the public for protests This declaration served as an attempt to undermine Sowores moral and public standing reinforcing the polices stance on his wanted status which was linked to alleged plans to instigate public disorder in Lagos particularly in relation to a demolition exercise in Oworonshoki .
Omoyele Sowores Ongoing Conflict with the Police
The certificate allegation did not occur in a vacuum it is situated within a broader high stakes confrontation The police had previously declared Sowore wanted over allegations of planning to incite public disorder and obstruct major roads Sowore has consistently dismissed these accusations framing the declaration as an attempt to silence him and divert attention from the substantive issues such as the contentious demolition of properties .
In response to the polices actions Sowore took legal steps filing a significant lawsuit against the police and the CP seeking N500 million in damages for the unlawful declaration and violation of his constitutional liberties Furthermore a Federal High Court in Lagos has since issued an interim injunction restraining the police from arresting harassing or intimidating Sowore effectively halting the enforcement of the wanted status pending the determination of the substantive suit .
Chidi Odinkalus Reaction Centering Legal and Human Rights
Professor Chidi Odinkalu a globally recognised voice on human rights governance and law in Nigeria is known for his sharp and legally grounded critique of public statements and actions by state actors While the precise words of his reaction in a single quote may not be readily available the context of his public engagement suggests his commentary would revolve around several key legal and constitutional points .
- Abuse of Office and Scope of Authority: Odinkalu would likely question the relevance and propriety of a Commissioner of Police discussing a citizens NYSC status on a television interview especially when the activist is being sought for alleged criminal offences The CPs role is to enforce law and order not to adjudicate or pronounce on certificate matters outside the scope of a formal investigation or prosecution .
- Constitutional Rights and Presumption of Innocence: The Professors reaction is expected to highlight the dangers of public servants using their platform to malign citizens characters potentially prejudicing public perception and ongoing legal matters It is an argument against the weaponisation of sensitive personal details to silence a critic .
- A Diversionary Tactic: Odinkalus analysis would most probably identify the certificate allegation as a diversionary tactic designed to shift public focus from the core issues Sowore was protesting—namely the demolition of properties and the polices heavy-handed response to dissent .
Odinkalus engagement in the matter serves as a crucial legal and ethical check on the polices conduct ensuring the public debate remains focused on the fundamental rights of assembly protest and due process rather than being sidetracked by unrelated personal eligibility claims .
Conclusion The Legal Tussle Continues
The Lagos CPs claim about Omoyele Sowores NYSC certificate has undeniably amplified the already fraught relationship between the police and the activist The intervention and analysis by legal luminaries like Professor Chidi Odinkalu serve to anchor the debate in the rule of law and human rights principles As the legal battle unfolds particularly with the Federal High Court injunction in place the core question remains does a dispute over a certificate—even if valid—legitimise a declaration of wanted status and attempts to suppress public dissent The ensuing legal proceedings will determine the trajectory of this significant conflict between security agencies and civil society in Nigeria .
Dynamic Disclaimer Requirement
Disclaimer The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources concerning the statements made by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and the reaction of Professor Chidi Odinkalu regarding the NYSC certificate status of Omoyele Sowore Readers should cross-check updates and verify details from official news outlets and court filings especially concerning ongoing legal matters and official police pronouncements .