Nigerian police have arrested activist Akande Daniel Babatunde, a member of the Solidarity Network for Workers’ Rights and the Network of Abuja Left Groups, during a church service on Sunday. The arrest was carried out by the Inspector General of Police’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) at Guzape District in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the Solidarity Network for Workers’ Rights (SNWR), Babatunde’s arrest is allegedly connected to his involvement in the recent 10-day #EndBadGovernance protests. The organization condemned the arrest in a statement issued Sunday evening by its Coordinator, Segun Ogun, and Secretary, Lateef Adams.
SNWR reported that police officers initially claimed the arrest was related to a murder case to justify their actions during the church service. Both Babatunde and his wife had their smartphones confiscated during the arrest.
The activist group stated that upon arrival at the IRT facility, Babatunde was only briefly questioned about whether he had received any funds during the August protests, to which he responded negatively. Following this interaction, he was reportedly placed in handcuffs without further explanation.
SNWR has denounced the detention as “arbitrary and unlawful,” demanding Babatunde’s immediate release. The organization views the arrest as an attempt to intimidate and suppress voices of dissent in Nigeria.
The group called on relevant authorities to address what they term an abuse of power and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights. They emphasized that Babatunde’s arrest is “an affront to justice” and exemplifies ongoing efforts to stifle dissent in the country.
Source: Sahara Reporters
