The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, at the Kuje Custodial Centre following the revocation of his bail last week.
The court’s decision marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the activist and former presidential candidate, who is currently facing cybercrime-related charges brought against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).
In addition to ordering his remand, the court dismissed an application filed by Sowore seeking the recusal of the presiding judge from the case. Sowore had alleged that the judge was biased and could not guarantee a fair hearing.
However, the court rejected the request and ruled that the trial would continue under the current judge.
Cybercrime Charges
Sowore is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services over allegations that he violated provisions of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws through comments made on social media.
According to the charges, the AAC chieftain allegedly referred to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as “a criminal” in one of his social media posts.
The DSS maintains that the statement constituted an offence under the Cybercrimes Act, while Sowore and his supporters have argued that the charges raise concerns about freedom of expression and political dissent in a democratic society.
Bail Revocation Leads to Remand
The latest court order follows the revocation of Sowore’s bail by the Federal High Court. With the bail no longer in effect, the court directed that he be taken into custody and remanded at the Kuje Custodial Centre pending further proceedings in the matter.
The development has generated reactions from political observers, civil society groups, and supporters of the activist, many of whom are closely monitoring the case due to its implications for free speech, political criticism, and the administration of justice in Nigeria.
What Happens Next?
With the application for judicial recusal dismissed and Sowore now in custody, attention shifts to the continuation of the trial, where both the prosecution and defense are expected to present further arguments on the allegations.
The outcome of the case is likely to attract significant national interest given Sowore’s profile as a prominent activist, publisher, and opposition political figure.
FaceToFace TV Political Desk
