The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, remain in custody until June 30, 2026, when it will deliver a ruling on his application challenging the revocation of his bail.
Justice Mohammed Umar fixed the date after hearing arguments on Sowore’s motion seeking the restoration of his bail and the setting aside of a bench warrant issued against him. The activist was remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre following the revocation of his bail on June 16 for failing to appear in court on a scheduled trial date.
Sowore is facing charges of alleged cybercrime and criminal defamation. His legal team had applied for his release to their custody pending the ruling on June 30, but the court declined the request, ordering that he remain in prison custody.
The development has sparked reactions from supporters and civil society groups, who view the case as one with significant implications for freedom of expression and political activism in Nigeria.
Sowore’s legal team expressed confidence in a favorable outcome on June 30, while the prosecution maintained its opposition to the bail application.