The DSS has arraigned Omoyele Sowore on cybercrime charges over posts allegedly defaming President Tinubu. A Federal High Court granted him bail on self-recognition but imposed strict restrictions on public statements
DSS Arraigns Sowore on Cybercrime Charges, Court Grants Bail with Strict Conditions
The Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday arraigned politician and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on allegations of cybercrime.
Justice Mohammed Umar granted him bail on self-recognition but attached tough conditions restricting him from making public comments that could “incite the public or undermine national security.”
The judge issued a stern warning, stressing that the bail would be withdrawn immediately if Sowore made any further remarks deemed “harmful to the peace and security of the country.”
Tuesday’s proceedings came after two earlier failed arraignment attempts. DSS counsel, Akinolu Kehinde (SAN), told the court the delays were caused by “legal obstacles” allegedly erected by the defence team.
Justice Umar ruled that Sowore, a former presidential candidate already under existing bail conditions with his international passport held by the court, was eligible for bail on self-recognition. The decision followed a fresh bail application moved by his lawyer, Marshall Abubakar.
Sowore was arraigned on a five-count charge accusing him of defaming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by referring to him as a “criminal” in posts published on X and Facebook. The DSS said the alleged remarks violate provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, as well as the Criminal Code Act.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In a notable twist, two global tech giants — X Inc. (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms Inc. — were also named as co-defendants in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025. Read More
