Zulum Rejects Sowore’s Claims of Torture Chamber
Maiduguri, August 2025 – Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has dismissed insinuations linking him to claims by activist Omoyele Sowore that he was held in a “torture chamber.”
The controversy erupted after Sowore alleged he was subjected to inhumane conditions while in police custody. However, the Nigeria Police Force has firmly denied the allegation, stressing that Sowore was neither tortured nor mistreated during his detention.
Police authorities explained that:
Sowore was arrested over allegations of forgery and cyberstalking, not for political reasons.
He was released within the constitutional 48-hour window as stipulated under Section 35(4) of the 1999 Constitution.
The “bandaged arm” seen in viral photos was part of Sowore’s personal belongings before his arrest.
Medical teams were sent twice (on 7 and 8 August) to assess his health, but Sowore reportedly refused examination.
The Force operates a strict zero-tolerance policy on torture, in line with the Anti-Torture Act, 2017.
Police spokespersons further clarified that the claim of a torture chamber was baseless and designed to mislead the public.
Meanwhile, Governor Zulum has not issued any statement directly tying him to Sowore’s detention. Officials close to the Borno government described the claims as a “deliberate attempt to politicize the matter.”