The Nigerian Police Force has detained a female activist, Olamide Thomas, over accusations of disregarding directives from President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Olamide, a nurse and humanitarian worker, was initially held at a police station in Panti, located in the Bariga area of Lagos State, before being transferred to the police headquarters in Abuja.
Her arrest is reportedly linked to the EndSARS memorial held on October 1, 2024. Witnesses and video footage suggest that tensions escalated during the protest, with participants openly criticizing President Tinubu, issuing threats against him and his son, and targeting the Inspector-General of Police. Olamide alleged that she was subjected to physical assault by the police during the protest, claiming her rights were violated and that she was unfairly treated.
A fellow activist, Tomide Netufo, reported that Olamide initially feared she had been shot during the demonstration. He stated, “She was arrested three days ago while at home with her husband.”
Tomide further alleged that the police located Olamide’s residence using information obtained during a search involving her brother. He described how, the day after her arrest, Olamide was taken to Abuja in a Toyota Venza with the registration number KTU 582HX. Upon arrival, she was first detained at the Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) before being moved to the Cybercrime Department.
He criticized the government for what he viewed as a disproportionate response, questioning the necessity of transporting Olamide from Lagos to Abuja. Tomide added that human rights lawyers have since become involved in efforts to secure her release.
Attempts to obtain a statement from the spokesperson for the Nigerian Police Force, Omoba Olumuyiwa Adejobi, have so far been unsuccessful.
