Police Arrest Akande Daniel In Church Over Alleged Role In Protest

An activist and a member of the Solidarity Network for Workers’ Rights, has been arrested by the Nigerian police.

SaharaReporters learnt that Comrade Akande Daniel Babatunde, who is also a member of the Network of Abuja Left Groups, was picked in church during service on Sunday by the Inspector General of Police‘s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) at Guzape District in the Federal Capital Territory.

SNWR has condemned the arrest, revealing that his arrest is in connection with his alleged role in the recent 10-day #EndBadGovernance protests.

In a statement on Sunday evening by the group’s Coordinator, Segun Ogun and Secretary, Lateef Adams, SNWR said, “The arrest occurred during a church service, where the officers falsely claimed it was related to a murder case to justify their actions. Both Comrade Daniel and his wife had their smartphones confiscated.

“From reliable information gathered by his lawyer, we understand upon arrival at the IRT facility, Comrade Daniel was questioned only once regarding whether he had received any funds during the August protests, to which he responded in the negative.

“Following this brief interaction, he was placed in handcuffs without further explanation. We condemn this arbitrary and unlawful detention and demand the immediate release of Comrade Daniel.

“His arrest is an affront to justice and an example of the ongoing attempts to intimidate and suppress voices of dissent in our country. We call on all relevant authorities to address this abuse of power and ensure that the rights of citizens are protected.”