The Federal Government (FG) has amended the cybercrime charges filed against activist and former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, over a social media post in which he described President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal.”
In the revised charge, filed under FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025 and dated December 4, 2025, the FG removed X Inc. (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms Inc. (Facebook) as defendants, who were initially cited as second and third respondents in the case. The amended filing also reduced the number of counts from five to two.
Sowore, arraigned on December 2, 2025, is expected to enter a fresh plea before Justice Mohammed Umar. Previously, he pleaded not guilty and was released on bail on self-recognisance. The charge alleges that Sowore’s post, made on August 25, 2025, intended to cause a breakdown of law and order, tarnish President Tinubu’s reputation, and constituted cyberstalking under Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(a), (b), and (c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, as well as Sections 59 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act.
The contentious post followed President Tinubu’s statement in Brazil claiming his administration had eradicated corruption in Nigeria. In response, the Department of State Services (DSS) demanded that Sowore delete the post and requested the social media platforms block his account, which both refused.
Justice Umar granted Sowore bail on self-recognisance, noting that he had surrendered his international passport. The court barred him from making statements that could jeopardize national peace and warned that any violation could result in revocation of bail.
The amended charge specifies that Sowore knowingly or intentionally posted the statement on both his X and Facebook accounts with the alleged intent to threaten life, incite disorder, or cause a breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.
I think reducing the charges against Sowore is a step in the right direction, but is it a genuine move or just a political tactic?
Why reduce the charges against Sowore? Is the government playing fair or trying to silence dissent? Suious move.
Why reduce charges against Sowore? Is this a sign of leniency or a strategic move? Curious to hear opinions.
I cant believe they reduced the charges against Sowore! Is this a step towards justice or just a way to silence him?
Isnt it strange how the charges against Sowore keep cing? Whats the real motive behind this constant amendment? 🤔
Do you think the reduction of cybercrime charges against Sowore is fair, or is it a strategic move by the government? Lets discuss!