DSS Arraigns Omoyele Sowore in Abuja Over Alleged Cybercrime Tweets Against President Tinubu

Controversial activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore is set to be arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja today, September 16, 2025, by the Department of State Services (DSS).

                                                      

Sowore, alongside two others, faces five-count cybercrime charges for allegedly publishing fraudulent tweets against President Bola Tinubu in a bid to disrupt peace and public order.

Sowore appeared in court flanked by supporters as he prepared to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.

The criminal charge sheet (FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025) also lists X Incorporation and Meta (Facebook) as defendants, though Sowore is the only one physically present in court.

According to prosecutors, Sowore allegedly posted from his verified X handle @YeleSowore on August 25, 2025, writing:

“This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”

The Federal High Court claims the post violates Section 24(2)(b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024, which criminalizes certain online communications deemed harmful to public peace.

The high-profile case has drawn significant legal attention, with about 25 lawyers reportedly in court to represent Sowore.

Observers suggest the case could test Nigeria’s cybercrime law and its implications for free speech and political dissent online.