Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has publicly condemned the Department of State Services (DSS) for the continued detention of Kola Edokpayi, a fellow activist and convener of civil society movements in Edo State.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sowore described the DSS as “lawless,” alleging that Edokpayi has been held incommunicado since last week without formal charges.
“Lawless @OfficialDSSNG has detained activist @MarxistKola since last week based on the unfounded allegation that his participation in a Traore Protest in Benin City, Edo State caused palpitations for @officialABAT’s regime,” Sowore wrote.
Sowore, known for his vocal stance against repression and state-sponsored intimidation, called on the DSS to release Kola Edokpayi immediately, insisting that peaceful protest is a constitutional right.
Edokpayi reportedly took part in a demonstration in Benin City linked to African solidarity protests for Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, which drew the attention of local security forces. According to Sowore and other civil rights observers, the DSS has not formally charged Edokpayi but continues to hold him over claims that his activism may destabilize the current administration.
This comes amid growing concerns about the shrinking space for dissent under the current Nigerian government, with multiple recent arrests of activists, journalists, and online critics sparking national and international concern.
Sowore's call adds to rising demands for transparency in Nigeria’s intelligence community, urging the DSS to operate within the bounds of the law and cease arbitrary detentions of citizens engaging in peaceful civil action.
Rights groups and supporters of Edokpayi are expected to intensify pressure on the DSS in the coming days, with some planning to file legal action and organize awareness campaigns.
