Abuja, Nigeria – The Force Headquarters in Abuja was heavily guarded on Monday as armed police officers were deployed in anticipation of the scheduled appearance of Omoyele Sowore, former presidential candidate and prominent activist.

Sowore was summoned by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) following his release of a viral video alleging extortion by police officers at a checkpoint in Lagos. The video, which sparked widespread public reactions, led to an official invitation for the activist to answer allegations ranging from cyberstalking to obstructing public officers.

A letter from the Force Intelligence Department, addressed to Sowore, detailed the allegations against him. These included resisting and obstructing public officers, disobedience to lawful orders, acts allegedly intended to prevent arrests, and cyberstalking. The letter, signed by a senior official, requested Sowore to appear at the Force Intelligence Department Complex on Shehu Shagari Way, Abuja, at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 27, 2025.

The police letter read in part: “This office is investigating cases of Resisting and Obstructing Public Officers, Disobedience to Lawful Order, Acts Intended to Cause Grievous Harm or Prevent Arrest, Compelling Action by Intimidation, Reckless & Negligent Acts, Refusal to Assist Public Servant, and Cyberstalking in which your name featured prominently.”

In reaction to the summons, Sowore’s supporters under the aegis of the Take It Back Movement called for a demonstration at the Force Headquarters. The group circulated a flier on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), calling for a protest against alleged police extortion. The flier, titled “Occupy Force Headquarters,” featured bold red text and images of Sowore and the Inspector General of Police side-by-side, urging Nigerians to rally against systemic corruption.

As early as Monday morning, the area surrounding the Force Headquarters was heavily fortified. Roads leading to the complex were barricaded by police officers equipped with anti-riot gear, a move widely seen as a preemptive response to the planned demonstration.

At the time of this report, neither Sowore nor representatives of the Force Intelligence Department have made any public statements regarding the ongoing investigation. However, the incident has reignited public debates about accountability within the police force and the rights of citizens to expose misconduct.

This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as more details emerge.