By Ranti Thomas
The legal battle between activist Omoyele Sowore and the Federal Government took a fresh turn after a Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed his attempt to stop the ongoing cyberbullying trial linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Justice Mohammed Garba Umar ruled that prosecutors had presented enough evidence for the case to continue, directing Sowore to enter his defence instead of ending the matter at this stage.
The case was filed by the Department of State Services over social media posts in which Sowore allegedly referred to Tinubu as a “criminal,” a claim authorities said violated provisions of the Cybercrimes Act.
Sowore’s legal team had argued that the prosecution failed to properly connect him to the alleged offences and asked the court to dismiss the charges completely.
However, the court held that witnesses and evidence already presented established a prima facie case strong enough to require a response from the defendant.
The ruling immediately created fresh tension in the courtroom, with Sowore openly expressing dissatisfaction and questioning whether he could still receive a fair hearing under the current judge.
His lawyers also indicated plans to file an application asking the judge to withdraw from the case, further adding drama to the already controversial trial.
The matter has continued to attract national attention because of its connection to free speech, online criticism of public officials, and the use of cybercrime laws against political activists.
Political and legal observers say the decision means the case is now moving into a more serious phase where Sowore will be expected to personally answer the allegations against him.
The court subsequently adjourned proceedings to May 19 for continuation of the trial.
As reactions continue across political and civil rights circles, attention is now focused on whether the case will deepen debate over freedom of expression and digital speech in Nigeria.