ASABA: Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has been ordered to be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre by the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged cybercrime and defamation charges.
The court ruled on Monday that Sowore should remain in custody until Wednesday, June 24, 2026, when further proceedings in the case are expected to continue.
The case, filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), contains a two-count charge under the amended Cybercrimes Act 2024. Prosecutors allege that Sowore engaged in cyberstalking and criminal defamation after he described President Bola Tinubu as a criminal in a social media post made in August 2025.
According to the prosecution, the post—shared on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook—was capable of inciting public disorder and constituted false information intended to damage reputations.
Sowore, however, has pleaded not guilty and insists his statements fall under protected free speech.
In earlier rulings, Justice Mohammed Umar held that the DSS had established a prima facie case against the defendant, thereby requiring him to open his defence.
At a later stage, Sowore’s legal team withdrew from the case, citing alleged humiliation in court. The activist then chose to represent himself and filed a motion accusing the judge of bias.
On June 16, 2026, Sowore failed to appear for a scheduled hearing, prompting the prosecution to describe his absence as a delay tactic. The court subsequently revoked his self-recognised bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest.
Following the execution of the arrest order, the Federal High Court on June 22, 2026, dismissed Sowore’s application seeking the judge’s disqualification over alleged bias.
The court then directed that he be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the continuation of trial proceedings.
The federal government’s case relies on provisions of Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act 2024. Prosecutors argue that Sowore’s online statements were knowingly false and capable of inciting unrest.
Sowore maintains his innocence, insisting that his remarks were political expressions protected under constitutional free speech.
He also claims that he appeared in court on an earlier date when proceedings did not hold, and that his subsequent absence was not an attempt to obstruct justice.
The case is expected to resume mid-week, with Sowore remaining in custody until further judicial decisions are made.
