JUST IN: FG Set to Arraign Sowore on Five-Count Charge

The Federal Government has concluded plans to arraign human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, on allegations bordering on cybercrime and incitement. 

He faces a five-count charge linked to an online post said to target President Bola Tinubu.

Court filings reveal that the case also lists two social media giants, X (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, as co-defendants. 

The inclusion of the platforms is tied to their role in hosting and publishing the alleged content.

According to the charge sheet, Sowore is accused of using his verified X handle to publish a statement on August 25, describing President Tinubu in derogatory terms. 

The post allegedly read: “This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”

Prosecutors argue that the publication was calculated to mislead the public and provoke unrest. 

They cite Section 24(2)(b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024 as the basis of the charges, stressing that the remarks fall within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.

A senior government lawyer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “Freedom of expression does not give anyone the right to spread falsehoods that could destabilise the nation. The law is clear, and the court will decide on the merits of the case.”

Sowore, a well-known critic of successive governments, has yet to issue an official response to the fresh charges. However, close associates insist the move is politically motivated. “This is another attempt to silence dissent. The government should focus on governance, not intimidation,” a supporter told reporters.

MCC News reports that the case is expected to attract wide public interest, especially given Sowore’s history of activism and his previous run-ins with Nigerian authorities. 

With Nigerians online stating that the outcome could test the balance between free speech and state regulation of online platforms in the country.