RismadarVoice Reporters, June 22, 2026
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday ordered that human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending continuation of his trial.
Justice Mohammed Umar directed that Sowore remain in custody until Wednesday, June 24, 2026, when proceedings in the cybercrime case are scheduled to resume.
The case stems from a two-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), which accuses Sowore of cyberstalking and criminal defamation following a 2025 social media post in which he referred to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal” during commentary on a foreign trip by the president.
Court records show that Sowore declined to delete the posts despite DSS demands, insisting on his right to free expression.
In earlier rulings, the court had held that the prosecution established a prima facie case, compelling the defendant to enter his defence. However, proceedings became strained after Sowore’s legal team withdrew from the case in June 2026, citing what they described as humiliation in court.
Sowore later opted to represent himself and subsequently filed motions alleging bias on the part of the trial judge—applications which were dismissed.
On June 16, the court issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear for a scheduled hearing, with the prosecution describing his absence as a delay tactic. His bail was also revoked.
The Federal Government’s case is anchored on provisions of the amended Cybercrimes Act, 2024, particularly Section 24, which criminalises the spread of false information capable of causing public disorder. Prosecutors argue that Sowore’s remarks were deliberate and harmful, while he maintains a plea of not guilty.
Sowore has, however, countered claims of evasion, insisting he had attended a prior hearing that was not held and that he formally notified the court of his movements.
With the latest ruling, he will remain in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre as the trial continues midweek.
