Police Warn Officers About Sowore, Claim Activist Uses Hidden Cameras in Glasses, Pen
Internal WhatsApp messages reveal security concerns over human rights activist
Officers of the Nigeria Police Force have circulated warnings across internal WhatsApp groups cautioning colleagues to be vigilant when interacting with Omoyele Sowore, the human rights activist and former presidential candidate, whom they accuse of secretly recording police operations with concealed devices.
“Don’t Fall Victim to Him” – Police Alert
Messages obtained from police platforms allege that Sowore uses sophisticated spy equipment embedded in everyday items – including his eyeglasses, shirt buttons, and pens – to document police activities.
One message reads:
“For the benefit of those who don’t know him: Omoyele Sowore. He is always looking for an opportunity to indict policemen on duty. If he offers you anything while on duty, don’t take it. He records video with his eyeglasses, shirt button, pen, and other hidden body devices. Don’t fall victim to him.”
Another officer questioned how Sowore allegedly smuggled recording equipment into a police facility:
“Men on duty or the counter, please be careful. Imagine Sowore brought a camera in to record policemen on duty. My question is this: Was he not searched at the gate before he came in with a camera?”
Visit to Detained TikToker Sparks Tension
The warnings followed Sowore’s attempt three days ago to visit Timothy Gabriel “Tumma,” a TikToker detained for nearly 50 days over allegations of insulting Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. Despite arriving with Tumma’s mother and completing required protocols, Sowore was denied access.
Reacting on social media, Sowore linked the police warnings to the blocked visit:
“Three days ago, a visit to the Force Investigation Department (FCID) to see Timothy Gabriel Tumma, a TikToker and police abuse victim, was thwarted when officers became agitated and denied visitation rights, despite fulfilling necessary protocols.”
He further criticized the police for failing to present Tumma in court, alleging political interference:
“Tumma had been detained at the request of President Bola Tinubu’s wife, Senator Remi Tinubu. Police authorities refused to bring him to court, prompting our intervention.”
Sowore Fires Back: “Reform is Inevitable”
The activist dismissed the WhatsApp discussions as evidence of systemic corruption:
“These posts showcase their corrupt and inhumane attitude, knowing I will not tolerate extortion, torture, or abuse of citizens—including their own officers.”
Addressing reform-minded officers, Sowore vowed:
“A firm promise to those policemen and women on the revolutionary journey with us: reform is your only option.”
Tumma Released on Bail
Following sustained public pressure, Tumma was granted bail on Tuesday. Sowore confirmed:
“Gladly, Tumma was released after these efforts. He is now a free man.”
Implications
The leaked messages highlight growing tensions between Nigerian authorities and activists documenting alleged rights abuses. Sowore’s history of exposing police misconduct—including past arrests and live-streamed confrontations—appears to have made him a high-profile concern within security circles.
The police force has yet to issue an official statement on the internal warnings. Meanwhile, civil society groups warn that such alerts could signal attempts to intimidate activists and suppress accountability efforts.
