The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the immediate remand of human rights activist and former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at the Kuje Correctional Centre. Sowore is scheduled to remain in custody until legal proceedings resume.
Background and Cybercrime Charges
The detention follows a two-count cybercrime charge initiated by the Department of State Services (DSS). The prosecution accuses Sowore of cyberstalking and criminal defamation under Section 24 of the amended Cybercrimes Act, 2024. The charges originate from August 2025 social media posts on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, where Sowore criticized President Bola Tinubu regarding statements made during an official visit to Brazil.
The prosecution alleges that the online remarks were knowingly false and intended to incite public disorder. Sowore has maintained a plea of not guilty, refusing demands to remove the posts by citing his right to free speech.
Procedural History and Bail Revocation
In May 2026, Justice Mohammed Umar rejected an application by the defense to dismiss the charges, ruling that the DSS had established a prima facie case requiring Sowore to present his defense. Following a subsequent judicial directive for daily trial hearings, Sowore’s legal team withdrew from the matter, prompting the activist to opt for self-representation.
The current remand follows the revocation of Sowore's self-recognition bail and the issuance of a bench warrant. The prosecution argued that Sowore’s failure to appear for a scheduled defense continuation constituted a deliberate delay tactic. Conversely, Sowore contended that he had attended the previously scheduled court date, but the presiding judge was absent without notice. The defense noted that a formal letter detailing subsequent travel plans had been submitted to the court registry prior to the issuance of the arrest warrant.
Recent Court Rulings and Next Steps
Justice Umar officially dismissed a motion filed by Sowore that sought the judge's disqualification from the case based on allegations of bias. Following the dismissal of the motion, the court ordered Sowore's transfer to the Kuje Correctional Centre.
In public statements following the ruling, Sowore expressed that the court's decision was anticipated and stated his readiness to continue his legal defense. He framed the ongoing proceedings as part of a long-standing commitment to social justice and advocacy against governance impunity. Legal proceedings are scheduled to resume mid-week.