Police Fire Teargas, Prevent Journalists and Lawyers from Entering Court Ahead of Sowore’s Hearing

Lawyers, journalists, and members of the public were unable to enter the Kuje Magistrate Court in Abuja on Monday due to heavily armed police personnel barricading the door.

The early-morning arrival of the operatives caused confusion and conjecture on the reason behind their decision to seal off all entry points.

Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist, was scheduled to be released on bail after supposedly perfecting his terms.

“We saw a detachment of armed police officers with Armoured Personnel Carriers mounted at strategic points around the court,” an eyewitness told SaharaReporters.

After police allegedly shot tear gas canisters inside the courtroom, lawyers and associates of Sahara Reporters Publisher and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who had gathered in support, were dispersed.

Other attorneys and journalists who were in court for different cases were also impacted by the action. As they insisted on performing their rightful tasks, several were turned back at the gate, which resulted in violent altercations.

Police Tension in the scene increased as Hilux vans and APCs were positioned at various points throughout the court. Residents and bystanders were allegedly harassed by security personnel.

Recall that Sowore was re-arrested by Abuja police on Friday, October 24, 2025, shortly after being granted bail by the Kuje Magistrate Court.