Human rights activist, publisher of Sahara Reporters, and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has been remanded in the Kuje Correctional Centre by a Federal High Court in Abuja pending the continuation of his trial on cybercrime charges.

The order was issued on Monday by Justice Mohammed Umar after the court dismissed an application filed by Sowore seeking the judge’s withdrawal from the case over alleged bias.

Court Rejects Recusal Request

Sowore had asked the court to recuse itself from the matter, arguing that the judge’s actions raised concerns about impartiality.

However, Justice Umar dismissed the application and directed that the trial should proceed.

Following the ruling, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) took Sowore into custody from the courtroom.

Details of the Charges

The DSS is prosecuting Sowore on a two-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

The charges stem from social media posts in which he allegedly referred to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal.”

Prosecutors contend that the statements were false and capable of causing public disorder and undermining public peace.

Earlier Bail Revocation

The court had previously revoked Sowore’s self-recognisance bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear before the court on June 16.

Although his legal team wrote to seek an adjournment, the court ruled that no sufficient reason was provided for his absence.

That decision paved the way for the issuance of the arrest warrant and the subsequent remand order.

Case Resumes Wednesday

Justice Umar ordered that Sowore be held at the Kuje Correctional Centre until June 24, when the matter is expected to continue.

The case has generated reactions from supporters and civil society groups, with some describing the prosecution as an attack on free speech and political opposition.

Sowore has maintained his innocence and is expected to continue his defence when the trial resumes.