A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore three days to study charges filed against him by the Department of State Services (DSS), following a controversial social media post deemed critical of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The DSS alleges that Sowore’s post constitutes incitement and a threat to national security. The charges, which have sparked widespread debate over freedom of expression and political dissent, were formally presented during a preliminary hearing on September 30, 2025.
Presiding Judge Justice Binta Nyako ruled that Sowore must be given adequate time to review the charges and prepare his defence, in line with constitutional guarantees of fair trial and legal representation.
“The defendant is entitled to sufficient time to study the charges and consult with counsel,” Justice Nyako stated. “The matter is hereby adjourned for three days.”
Sowore, who appeared in court alongside his legal team, maintained that his post was within the bounds of free speech and political commentary. His lawyers have vowed to challenge the charges, describing them as politically motivated and an attempt to silence dissent.
Civil society organizations, press freedom advocates, and opposition figures have condemned the arrest and prosecution, calling for transparency and adherence to democratic norms.
The DSS, however, insists that the post in question could incite unrest and undermine public order, citing national security concerns.