Human rights activist, Olamide Thomas, is reportedly being held indefinitely at the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja on the orders of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, according to sources within the Nigeria Police Force.
Thomas was arrested in Lagos and transferred to Abuja last Friday, following allegations of targeted harassment by the Force Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi. Her detention, which sources claim lacks legal grounds, has drawn widespread condemnation for its apparent abuse of authority.
Arrest and Transfer
Sources revealed that Thomas was tracked after police officers detained her brother. She was apprehended in Lagos and initially held at Alade Police Station before being moved to Abuja. Her arrest follows her vocal criticism of the IGP and Adejobi.
Claims of Harassment and Denial of Rights
Thomas has alleged mistreatment during her detention, including being denied medical care despite suffering from internal bleeding. She has also accused officers of bullying, intimidation, and obstructing her access to legal counsel.
According to Thomas, she was interrogated without her lawyers present, despite repeatedly insisting on legal representation. She stated, “They accused me of being rude and claimed I insulted the IGP and the President. I was denied food for an entire day and coerced to write a statement under duress.”
Unfounded Allegations
Police officers reportedly accused Thomas of attempted murder and threatening the lives of the IGP, the President, and Adejobi. However, no formal charges have been filed, and officers have admitted that her detention was at the IGP’s directive.
A police source at the FCID confirmed, “We found no evidence of wrongdoing against her. She is being held because the IGP instructed us to detain her as long as possible.”
Health Concerns in Detention
Thomas has raised concerns about her deteriorating health, revealing she is experiencing internal bleeding. Despite repeated requests for medical attention, officers allegedly ignored her pleas. “If anything happens to me, Adejobi and his associates should be held accountable,”she said.
Broader Implications
The indefinite detention of Olamide Thomas has sparked outrage among activists and human rights organizations, highlighting ongoing concerns about the misuse of power by Nigerian security agencies.
Calls are growing for her immediate release, proper medical attention, and accountability for those responsible for any violations of her rights.