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A dramatic confrontation at the Force Investigation Department (FID) offices in Abuja between Human Rights activist Omoyele Sowore and youth leader James Adama has thrown a glaring spotlight on a growing pattern of alleged abuse of police power tied to influential prosperity preachers in Nigeria.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate and the convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, posted a detailed account on social media following the incident, accusing James Adama—Coordinator of The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF)—of being the architect behind a series of arrests targeting young Nigerians who have criticized prominent religious figures.

According to Sowore, the altercation occurred on April 26, 2025, when Adama reportedly brought another individual, a podcaster from the “KaaTruths” platform, to the FID with the intention of having him detained. Sowore claimed that his intervention at the scene prevented the detention and enabled the podcaster’s release on bail.

But this is not an isolated case.

A Pattern of Targeted Detentions

In his post, Sowore outlined a disturbing trend of harassment and unlawful arrests allegedly orchestrated by Adama and backed by the Nigerian Police. Most notably, he referenced the case of the Eneche brothers, who were detained for months reportedly on the orders of Dr. Paul Enenche, founder of the Dunamis International Gospel Centre. Another individual, Olumide Ogunsanwo (@seaking303), was similarly detained at the Inspector General’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) cells, also allegedly at the behest of religious interests.

“These actions,” Sowore stated, “are carried out under the guise of Adama being a ‘nominal complainant,’ despite no personal offense being committed against him by the individuals he causes to be arrested.”

Clerical Collusion?

Adama is alleged to be heavily funded and supported by high-profile prosperity preachers, who reportedly use his platform and connections to silence dissent and maintain a pristine public image. Critics argue this reflects a broader misuse of power by wealthy religious elites, who are increasingly turning to the police to enforce loyalty and shield themselves from scrutiny.

“The Nigerian police, instead of being an institution of justice, is now being weaponized by well-connected preachers to suppress free speech,” said Chika Okeke, a civil rights lawyer based in Abuja. “It’s an egregious violation of constitutional rights.”

Police Harassment Continues Behind Closed Doors

Though the April 26 incident ended without additional arrests, Sowore warned that the harassment of critics continues in more covert forms. “The FID may have pulled back publicly after this confrontation,” he said, “but the pattern of underground intimidation hasn’t ceased.”

Despite the confrontation, Adama reportedly plans to lead a protest this week. Sowore welcomed the development, pointing out the irony: “He is entitled to the same rights he attempts to deny others. The struggle to preserve the dignity of all Nigerian citizens cannot and will not be stopped.”

A Call for Institutional Reform

The incident has reignited calls from activists and watchdog groups for sweeping reforms within the Nigeria Police Force, particularly regarding how complaints—especially those linked to public figures—are handled.

“This is about ensuring no Nigerian is above the law, and no citizen beneath its protection,” Sowore concluded.

As Adama prepares to take to the streets in protest, many will be watching closely—not only to see what message he delivers, but how Nigerian authorities respond to his right to demonstrate.

This post has already been read at least 11106 times!