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Tag: Federal High Court

  • 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.

  • FCCPC Denies Approving 48 New Loan Apps, Warns Against False Reports

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has dismissed reports claiming it approved 48 additional digital loan applications, describing the information as false and misleading.

    The commission said it has not expanded the list of approved digital lenders to 505, contrary to reports that circulated over the weekend. It added that no new approvals have been granted because it remains bound by a Federal High Court order suspending the implementation of its 2025 Digital Lending Regulations.

    Court order blocks fresh approvals

    According to the FCCPC, it cannot issue new approvals under the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, because the framework is currently under judicial review.

    The commission said it will continue to comply with the court order until the case is determined and will not take any action under the suspended regulations.

    Why the clarification matters

    The FCCPC noted that its approval has become a key benchmark for Nigerians seeking to identify legitimate digital loan platforms.

    Since the agency began its crackdown on abusive loan apps in 2022, it has repeatedly warned consumers against borrowing from unregistered operators accused of illegal debt recovery practices, privacy breaches and harassment. It said false reports about new approvals could expose borrowers to unlicensed platforms and create confusion within the industry.

    Background to the legal dispute

    The FCCPC introduced an interim registration framework for digital lenders in 2022 following widespread complaints about unethical practices in the sector.

    In July 2025, the agency replaced the interim framework with the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, giving operators until January 5, 2026, to comply.

    However, on April 15, 2026, the Federal High Court granted an interim order restraining the implementation of the regulations after a suit filed by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN). The substantive hearing has been fixed for July 20, 2026.

    The commission also recalled that earlier in June it debunked similar reports linking it to fresh approvals involving fintech firms in Nigeria’s airtime credit market. It advised the public to rely only on its official communications for updates on digital lender approvals while the court case is pending.

     

  • Court Sets Aside Judgment That Registered Peter Obi’s NDC, Orders INEC to Withdraw Recognition

    A Federal High Court in Lokoja has set aside its earlier judgment that directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party, ordering that all actions taken under the previous ruling be reversed.

    The decision followed an application by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which argued that the NDC was registered using a logo it had previously submitted to INEC.

    Court reverses earlier decision

    Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Isah Dashen held that the court’s December 10, 2025 ruling affected the rights of the PMP, even though the party was not joined in the original suit.

    The judge consequently vacated the earlier judgment and ordered all parties to return to the position they occupied before the December 10, 2025 decision. He also directed the claimants to include all necessary parties in the case before a fresh determination is made.

    INEC ordered to withdraw recognition

    Speaking after the ruling, counsel to the PMP, C.S. Ekeocha, said the judgment means every action taken by INEC based on the previous court order must be withdrawn.

    According to him, this includes the recognition of the NDC as a political party, the issuance of its certificate of registration, its inclusion in INEC’s official records and any appearance on ballot papers, pending the final determination of the substantive suit.

    Case not yet concluded

    Ekeocha clarified that the court did not determine the substantive dispute but only set aside its earlier judgment to ensure all parties affected by the case are given an opportunity to be heard.

    He also dismissed claims that the court merely ordered parties to maintain the status quo, insisting that the ruling specifically restored the position that existed before the December 10, 2025 judgment.

    The case is expected to return to court after the necessary parties have been joined for a fresh hearing.

     

  • 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.

     

  • Court Orders Deregistration of ADC, Four Other Political Parties

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the deregistration of five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a ruling that could have implications for political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Justice Peter Lifu delivered the judgment, holding that the affected parties failed to satisfy constitutional requirements necessary for their continued recognition as registered political parties in Nigeria.

    Parties Affected by Judgment

    The court’s decision affects the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Actions People’s Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Accord Party (AP).

    According to the judgment, the parties did not meet the standards stipulated under Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister political parties that fail to comply with constitutional and electoral obligations.

    Court Relies on Constitutional Provisions

    Justice Lifu noted that political parties are expected to fulfil specific legal and operational requirements to maintain their registration status.

    The court held that the affected parties fell short of those constitutional expectations, making them liable for deregistration under existing laws.

    Section 225 of the Constitution grants INEC the authority to remove parties from its register where they fail to meet prescribed conditions.

    Implications Ahead of 2027 Elections

    The ruling is expected to generate significant political debate as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

    The inclusion of the ADC among the affected parties has drawn particular attention due to its growing role in opposition politics and its association with prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    However, the legal battle may not be over, as the affected parties could challenge the ruling through the appellate courts.

    The judgment has introduced fresh uncertainty into Nigeria’s political landscape, with attention now turning to possible appeals and INEC’s next steps regarding the affected parties.

  • 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.

  • Court Clears Goodluck Jonathan To Contest 2027 Presidential Election

    A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ruled that former President Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to contest the 2027 presidential election.

    The judgment followed a suit filed by Johnmary Jideobi, who sought an order restraining Jonathan from presenting himself as a presidential candidate in the next general election.

    Court Rejects Suit Against Jonathan

    The plaintiff had asked the court to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission from accepting, processing or publishing Jonathan’s name as a presidential candidate for 2027.

    Jideobi also requested the court to determine whether Jonathan remained eligible to seek the office of president again under Sections 1(1), (2), (3) and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

    However, delivering judgment on Tuesday, Justice Peter Lifu held that the former president could lawfully participate in the election.

    The ruling effectively clears the way for Jonathan to seek the presidency again if he decides to contest.

    PDP Faction Offers Jonathan Waiver

    The development comes days after a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki reportedly offered Jonathan a waiver as the party’s sole presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 election.

    The move had intensified political discussions over a possible return of the former president to active electoral politics.

    Jonathan’s Political History

    Goodluck Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president between 2010 and 2015 after completing the tenure of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua before winning the 2011 presidential election.

    He later lost the 2015 presidential election to former President Muhammadu Buhari, becoming the first sitting Nigerian president to lose a re-election bid.

    Since leaving office, Jonathan has remained active in diplomatic and peacebuilding efforts across Africa, while repeatedly facing calls from political supporters to return to the presidential race.

     

  • INEC Appeals Court Judgment Nullifying 2027 Election Guidelines

    The Independent National Electoral Commission has approached the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal to challenge a Federal High Court judgment that nullified part of its guidelines for the 2027 general election.

    INEC is specifically seeking to overturn the ruling which voided its directive requiring political parties to submit membership registers and databases by May 10, 2026.

    Court Ruled Against INEC Guidelines

    Justice Muhammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja had last week ruled that INEC lacked the legal authority to impose deadlines outside what is already provided under the Electoral Act 2026.

    The judgment followed a suit filed by the Youth Party challenging the legality of the commission’s directive.

    According to the court, Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act gives political parties up to 120 days before an election to submit candidate particulars, adding that INEC could not shorten the timeline through administrative guidelines.

    INEC Heads To Appeal Court

    In a notice of appeal dated May 25, 2026, INEC, through its lawyer, Alex Izinyon, asked the appellate court to set aside the judgment.

    The electoral commission also requested an order staying the execution of the Federal High Court ruling pending the determination of the appeal.

    The legal dispute is expected to shape preparations and timelines ahead of the 2027 general election as political parties and electoral stakeholders monitor the outcome closely.