The Federal Government has re-arraigned human rights activist Omoyele Sowore on a two-count amended charge of alleged cyberstalking against President Bola Tinubu.
Sowore, who pleaded not guilty, had previously tagged President Tinubu as a “criminal” on X and Facebook. At the resumed hearing of the case at the Federal High Court, counsel for the Department of State Services (DSS), Akinlolu Kehinde, informed Justice Mohammed Umar of the amended charge, which removes X and Facebook from the list of defendants, leaving Sowore as the sole defendant.
While the prosecution expressed readiness to begin the trial, citing an available witness in court, Sowore’s counsel, Abubakar Marshal, opposed the motion. Marshal argued that the witness information and statements under oath were not attached to the charge, citing Section 36(6) of the Nigerian Constitution, which requires witness details to be provided upfront.
Kehinde countered that it would not serve the interest of a fair hearing to adjourn the matter, noting that previous delays in the case had been at the defendant’s request. He also argued that the Administration of Criminal Justice Act requirements for witness disclosure are applicable to Magistrates’ Courts, and intelligence officers’ identities could be addressed through a stand-down or adjournment if necessary.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice Mohammed Umar adjourned the case to January 22, 2026, for trial.
