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  • Court Grants Sowore ₦200m Bail in Cybercrime Case, Orders Passport Surrender

    Omoyele Sowore has been granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja in his ongoing cybercrime trial after spending more than a week at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

    Justice Mohammed Umar, who delivered the ruling on Tuesday, admitted the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate to bail in the sum of ₦200 million with two sureties. The court also ordered Sowore to deposit his international passport with the Deputy Chief Registrar pending the determination of the case.

    Strict Bail Conditions

    Although the court approved his bail application, Sowore will remain in custody until all the bail conditions are fulfilled.

    The Department of State Services (DSS) is prosecuting the activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters over alleged cybercrime and criminal defamation linked to social media posts made in August 2025, in which he reportedly described President Bola Tinubu as “a criminal.”

    How the Case Reached This Stage

    The court revoked Sowore’s earlier bail on June 16 after he failed to appear for trial and subsequently issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

    He was later remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre, while his legal team filed an application asking the court to set aside the warrant and restore his bail.

    After hearing arguments from both parties on June 24, Justice Umar reserved ruling until June 30.

    Supporters React

    The case has continued to attract public attention, with Sowore’s supporters staging protests outside the Federal High Court on several hearing dates, demanding his release and describing the prosecution as politically motivated.

    Following Tuesday’s ruling, reactions remained mixed. While many welcomed the decision to grant bail, others argued that the conditions imposed by the court were too stringent.

    The trial is expected to continue after Sowore meets the bail requirements.

  • Court Keeps Sowore in Kuje Prison, Fixes June 30 for Bail Ruling

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, remain in Kuje Correctional Centre pending a ruling on his application challenging the revocation of his bail.

    Justice Mohammed Umar fixed June 30, 2026, to deliver a ruling on Sowore’s motion seeking to set aside the court order that revoked his bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

    Lawyers Seek Reversal of Bail Revocation

    During proceedings on Wednesday, Sowore’s counsel, Raphael Adakole, who represented Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, urged the court to restore the earlier bail granted to the activist.

    The application challenged the June 16 decision that revoked Sowore’s bail after he failed to appear in court for a scheduled hearing.

    The defence argued that the court should exercise its discretion and reverse the order, relying on provisions of the Constitution, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and the court’s inherent powers.

    DSS Opposes Application

    Counsel to the Department of State Services (DSS), Akinkolu Kehinde (SAN), opposed the application and urged the court to dismiss it.

    The DSS maintained that Sowore had not provided sufficient grounds to justify setting aside the earlier orders of the court.

    After listening to arguments from both parties, Justice Umar adjourned the matter until June 30 for ruling.

    Request for Temporary Release Rejected

    Following the hearing, Sowore’s legal team requested that he be released pending the court’s decision on the application.

    The defence offered an undertaking to ensure his appearance on the next adjourned date.

    However, the DSS opposed the request, and the court declined to grant it, meaning Sowore will remain in custody until the ruling is delivered.

    Cybercrime Charges

    Sowore is currently facing charges filed by the DSS over social media posts in which he allegedly referred to President Bola Tinubu as a criminal.

    The prosecution argues that the statements were false, defamatory and capable of causing public disorder.

    Sowore has consistently denied wrongdoing and maintains that his comments were part of legitimate political criticism.

    Heavy Security Around Court

    Wednesday’s proceedings attracted significant attention, with heavy security deployed around the court premises.

    Supporters of Sowore gathered outside the court, while reports indicated minor tensions during the hearing.

    The case continues to draw national attention as debates over free speech, political dissent and cybercrime laws remain at the centre of the legal battle.

     

  • Tension at Abuja Court as Sowore’s Trial Resumes Amid Heavy DSS Presence

    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.

  • Sowore Remanded in Kuje Prison as Court Rejects Bias Allegation Against Judge

    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.

     

  • DSS Arraigns Man Over Alleged Calls for Military Coup Against Tinubu

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned a Lagos-based man, Paul Oweleke, before the Federal High Court over allegations that he used social media to incite Nigerians to support a military coup against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    The suspect was brought before Justice Akintoye Aluko on a two-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime offences, including the transmission of subversive messages through his online platform, “Oweleke TV.”

    Allegations by DSS

    Prosecuting counsel, Michael Bajela, told the court that Oweleke, on or about May 23, 2025, allegedly posted broadcasts calling for the unconstitutional removal of the President and advocating a military takeover similar to what occurred in Burkina Faso.

    He said the messages were capable of inciting public unrest and undermining national security and stability.

    Bajela further alleged that the defendant used his platform to harass and threaten the President, actions which he said placed the Presidency in fear of violence and bodily harm.

    Cybercrime Law Charges

    According to the DSS, the alleged offences violate sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024.

    The defendant pleaded not guilty when the charges were read in court.

    Court Proceedings

    Following his plea, the prosecution requested that the court fix a date for trial and remand the defendant in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending the conclusion of proceedings.

    However, the defence counsel informed the court that a bail application had already been filed and served on the prosecution.

    Justice Aluko subsequently adjourned the case until June 16, 2026, for hearing of the bail application and ordered that the defendant be remanded pending further proceedings.

  • VeryDarkMan Alleges DSS Questioned Activist Livinus Nwosu Over His Name, Claims He Was Listed as PVC Sensitisation Sponsor

    Social media activist VeryDarkMan has alleged that fellow activist Livinus Nwosu was questioned about him during his reported detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).

    In a video shared online, VDM claimed that after Nwosu was released from custody, the activist reached out to him with details of what allegedly transpired while he was being held.

    Alleged questioning over civic campaigns

    According to VeryDarkMan, Nwosu told him that security operatives asked questions about his whereabouts and attempted to find out when he would be returning to Nigeria.

    He further alleged that DSS officials asked Nwosu to write down the names of individuals linked to voter awareness and civic sensitisation campaigns, including his own name and that of popular influencer Tunde Ednut.

    Claims from messages after release

    VDM said the information came from messages he reportedly received from Nwosu after his release from detention, adding that the claims raised concerns about the targeting of civic activists involved in voter education.

    Return to Nigeria and reaction

    The activist also shared details of his planned return to Nigeria, stating that he is not afraid of arrest if authorities choose to invite or question him.

    He maintained that civic sensitisation efforts should not be discouraged, insisting that voter awareness remains essential ahead of future elections.

    Public reaction and wider concerns

    The allegation has sparked fresh debate online, with supporters expressing concern over the treatment of activists involved in voter education, while others have called for caution until official clarification is provided by security agencies.

    As of the time of this report, the DSS has not issued any public response to the allegations.

     

  • Pastor Ibiyeomie Questions Insecurity, Claims Politicians May Be Sponsoring Kidnappers in Nigeria

    Founder of Port Harcourt-based Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, questioning how kidnappers continue to operate despite the capabilities of the country’s security agencies.

    The cleric made the remarks during a recent sermon, where he suggested that the abduction of schoolchildren and other victims may not be random, alleging that powerful individuals could be backing the crimes.

    Allegations of Possible Sponsors

    Pastor Ibiyeomie said the pattern of kidnappings raises suspicion that the perpetrators may be receiving support from influential figures.

    “They are not just picking these children without sponsors. Politicians must be behind it,” he stated.

    He further questioned why security agencies have not been able to effectively track and arrest those responsible, despite what he described as advanced surveillance capabilities.

    Questions on Security Operations

    The cleric expressed doubt over the inability of security agencies to trace kidnappers, arguing that modern technology should make it easier to locate criminals.

    “The DSS can track people, so how come they are not tracking these kidnappers? There must be an invisible hand behind it,” he added.

    He also suggested that the continued success of kidnappers points to deeper systemic issues within Nigeria’s security architecture.

    Public Reactions and Ongoing Debate

    His comments have since generated reactions across social media, with Nigerians divided over his claims. While some agreed with his concerns about insecurity and accountability, others urged caution against making unverified allegations.

    The remarks come amid renewed public anxiety over rising kidnappings and attacks in different parts of the country, including recent incidents involving schoolchildren and teachers.

    Authorities have yet to respond to the specific claims made by the cleric at the time of this report.

  • Court Sentences Four Al-Shabaab Members to Death Over Owo Church Attack

    The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced four members of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group to death by hanging for their involvement in the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.

    The judgment was delivered on Wednesday by Justice Emeka Nwite, following their conviction on a nine-count terrorism charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) on behalf of the Federal Government.

    The attack, which occurred on June 5, 2022, left more than 40 worshippers dead and over 100 others injured during a Pentecost service.

    Court Finds Four Guilty

    The convicted persons are Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25), Al Qasim Idris (20), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26), and Abdulhaleem Idris (25). They were found guilty of participating in the deadly assault carried out by a terrorist cell operating in Kogi State.

    Justice Nwite ruled that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing that the defendants were active members of the group responsible for the attack.

    He held that their actions directly contributed to the violence that disrupted the church service and caused mass casualties.

    Fifth Defendant Acquitted

    The court, however, discharged and acquitted the fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47), after finding insufficient evidence linking him to the attack.

    The judge said the prosecution failed to establish his direct involvement in the incident.

    Evidence Presented in Court

    During the trial, the prosecution called 11 witnesses and tendered 23 exhibits, including confessional statements and a digital forensic report.

    Among the exhibits admitted was a device said to contain communications between the defendants before and after the attack.

    A surviving Catholic priest also testified, recounting how the attackers detonated multiple explosive devices inside the church, causing panic and heavy casualties.

    Terror Conviction Upheld

    Justice Nwite held that the totality of the evidence clearly connected the four convicts to the attack and justified their conviction on terrorism charges.

    The ruling brings a legal conclusion to one of Nigeria’s most deadly church attacks in recent years.

  • INEC Opens Investigation Into Alleged Misuse of Voter Data Access in CVR Database

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched an investigation into allegations of unauthorised access and misuse of its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) database following reports linked to the alleged exposure of a voter’s personal information.

    The commission disclosed this in a press statement issued on Tuesday by the Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

    Investigation Commences

    INEC said it had commenced a full-scale investigation into the incident to establish how voter information was accessed and disclosed.

    According to the commission, preliminary findings show that the matter involved internal access credentials issued to authorised registration officers during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise.

    INEC stressed that these credentials are strictly for official use and are withdrawn after the exercise.

    No External Breach Detected

    The electoral body clarified that there was no hacking or external breach of its voter database.

    It explained that preliminary audit findings indicate that the information was accessed using valid internal credentials but released without authorisation.

    “There was no external breach of the CVR database, no hacking incident, and no unauthorised external access to the Commission’s ICT infrastructure,” the statement said.

    INEC added that the incident involved access to a specific voter record and did not compromise the broader voter registration system or the data of over 90 million registered voters.

    DSS Also Investigating

    The commission further disclosed that the Department of State Services (DSS) has commenced an independent investigation into the matter.

    It assured that it would cooperate fully with security agencies and take disciplinary or legal action against anyone found culpable.

    INEC urged the public and media to avoid speculation while investigations continue, promising to update Nigerians once the process is concluded.

    The development comes amid public debate over alleged exposure of voter information linked to a political figure in the Federal Capital Territory.

  • DSS Arrests Two Foreign Nationals, Three Others Over Niger School Attack

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested five suspected arms couriers, including two foreign nationals from Niger Republic, over their alleged involvement in the November 2025 attack on St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.

    The attack led to the abduction of nearly 300 students and staff, making it one of the most severe mass kidnapping incidents in the state.

    Arrests and weapons recovery

    Security sources said the suspects were arrested during intelligence-led operations that also led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons, including 15 AK-103 rifles, 15 magazines, and 1,434 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

    Among those arrested were Yusuf Mohammed, also known as Bature, reportedly on the wanted list of Boko Haram, and his associate, Mubarak Ibrahim.

    The duo was intercepted along the Zaria–Kaduna Highway while allegedly en route to collect arms for terrorist commanders.

    Cross-border arms network uncovered

    Further operations led to the arrest of Goni Ibrahim, identified as an international arms courier from the Diffa Region of Niger Republic, alongside another suspect linked to the network.

    Security operatives also arrested another suspect, Alhaji Adamu, popularly known as Gado Banufe, in Yauri, Kebbi State, over alleged arms supply activities.

    Investigations suggest the suspects played key roles in supplying weapons used in the Papiri school attack.

    Background of the attack

    On November 21, 2025, armed men stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School in the early hours, abducting students and teachers after shooting sporadically.

    About 50 pupils reportedly escaped during the attack, while over 250 were taken into the Kainji Lake National Park forest.

    Authorities later confirmed that all abducted victims were rescued and reunited with their families in December 2025 after weeks in captivity.

    Security response

    The latest arrests are expected to strengthen ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle arms trafficking networks and prosecute those linked to the attack.

    Officials say investigations are ongoing as authorities continue tracking cross-border supply routes used by criminal groups.