Tension erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday as the trial of activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, resumed amid a heavy security presence.

Videos circulating online showed a large deployment of security personnel, including operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), around the court premises as supporters, lawyers and journalists gathered for the proceedings.

Lawyer Access Sparks Dispute

The situation reportedly became heated after claims emerged that one of Sowore’s lawyers was initially prevented from gaining access to the courtroom.

Footage from the scene showed supporters confronting security operatives while attempting to gain entry into the court complex.

Some individuals in the crowd accused security agencies of intimidating members of Sowore’s legal team and creating unnecessary tension around the proceedings.

Heavy Security Presence Draws Attention

The court premises witnessed an unusually large deployment of armed personnel, with several operatives stationed around key entry points.

Supporters of Sowore questioned the level of security mobilised for the hearing, arguing that the resources could be better deployed to address insecurity challenges across the country.

The atmosphere remained tense as lawyers, supporters and security personnel struggled to navigate the crowded court environment.

Background to the Case

Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters, is facing charges filed by the DSS under the Cybercrimes Act over social media posts allegedly considered defamatory toward President Bola Tinubu.

The activist was remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre after the Federal High Court revoked his bail over his failure to appear at an earlier hearing.

His legal team subsequently filed fresh applications challenging aspects of the proceedings, prompting Wednesday’s hearing.

Supporters Rally Around Activist

The court appearance attracted a sizeable number of Sowore’s supporters, many of whom gathered outside the courtroom chanting slogans and expressing solidarity with the activist.

The case has continued to generate public debate, with supporters describing it as a test of free speech and political dissent, while government officials maintain that the charges are based on alleged violations of existing laws.

Awaiting Court Decision

Proceedings are expected to continue as the court considers applications filed by Sowore’s legal team and determines the next stage of the trial.

The outcome is being closely monitored by political observers, civil society groups and supporters of the activist across the country.

“See all the gvns in court like it’s a w@r zone, their pr!kc rises whenever they see Sowore, yet they can’t go to the bush to rescue the k!dnapp£d children. Are you proud of Nigeria today ?? No you’re not, all these gvns would not save you, Sowore is the only person who can save… pic.twitter.com/QbDJr5M7GX

— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) June 24, 2026