Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has strongly condemned the Nigerian police for what he describes as an abuse of power in their handling of the bail process. Sowore, who was invited and subsequently detained for referring to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, as an “illegal IGP,” has criticized the police’s demand that he provide a Level 17 civil servant as his surety. He denounced this requirement as not only insulting but also unjust, asserting that he has no regrets for his remarks and will continue addressing Egbetokun in the same manner.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja after his bail hearing was adjourned on January 25, Sowore expressed outrage at the demand for a high-ranking government official as a surety, calling it absurd. In a video shared by *Sahara Reporters*, he accused the police of misusing their authority, arguing that their actions were driven by personal grievances rather than legal merit. He maintained that the bail conditions imposed on him were both illegal and corrupt, particularly criticizing the requirement for individuals to surrender their passports when granted bail.

Sowore further argued that the Nigerian police lack the legal grounds to impose such stringent conditions, especially those demanding substantial collateral such as expensive properties. He questioned the rationale behind requiring a Level 17 civil servant to stand as his surety, pointing out that he himself is an employer, running an international media organization. “How can a Level 17 civil servant stand bail for me when I employ people and operate a global media company?” he asked, expressing disbelief at what he sees as a deliberately oppressive system.

He reaffirmed his stance against corruption and pledged to continue challenging the abuse of power by Nigerian authorities.