By SUNTV Global Channel
June 27, 2026 | Abuja, Nigeria
Some officers at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abuja have reportedly expressed concern over what they describe as an unusually heavy security deployment following the detention of activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.
According to sources within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), security around the correctional facility has been significantly reinforced since Sowore was remanded to the prison. Additional armed security personnel have reportedly been deployed, while access to the facility has become more tightly controlled.
The heightened security is said to coincide with the steady influx of visitors, including Sowore’s lawyers, family members, political associates, supporters, and human rights advocates, many of whom have continued to demand his release.
Speaking anonymously, one correctional officer questioned the level of security surrounding the facility, claiming it exceeded measures previously implemented even when hundreds of terrorism suspects were held at the prison.
“When they brought about 500 terrorists here, they didn’t militarise this facility the way they have done because of Mr. Omoyele Sowore,” the officer reportedly said.
Sources also alleged that prison authorities have adjusted the daily visitation schedule. While visits previously lasted until about 2:30 p.m., visitors are now reportedly required to conclude their visits by approximately 1:30 p.m.
The changes, according to prison personnel, have affected not only Sowore’s visitors but also relatives, legal representatives, and associates of other inmates. Some officers reportedly complained that the increased security has disrupted normal prison operations and placed additional pressure on staff.
Sowore is currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered his remand pending further proceedings in his ongoing trial.
The activist is facing charges filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) over public statements in which he referred to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal.”
His detention has sparked criticism from civil society groups, lawyers, political allies, and human rights organisations, many of whom argue that the case is politically motivated and have called for his immediate release.
Earlier, Justice Mohammed Umar dismissed Sowore’s application requesting that the judge recuse himself from the case. Following the ruling, the court ordered that the trial should continue.
Sowore later disclosed that he represented himself in court after members of his legal team declined to continue appearing before the judge, alleging persistent unfair treatment during the proceedings.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has not publicly responded to the claims made by prison officers regarding the reported increase in security or the alleged changes to visitation procedures.
