FG amends cybercrime charge against Sowore

The Federal Government 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 called President Bola Tinubu a “criminal.”

In the amended charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025) dated December 4, 2025, the government removed X Inc. (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms Inc. (Facebook) as defendants, who were initially cited alongside Sowore. The number of counts was also reduced from five to two.

Sowore, first arraigned on December 2, 2025, had pleaded not guilty and was released on bail on self-recognisance. He is expected to enter a fresh plea before Justice Mohammed Umar.

The government alleged that Sowore’s post, made on August 25, 2025, aimed to cause a breakdown of law and order and tarnish President Tinubu’s reputation. The Department of State Services (DSS) had previously demanded the removal of the post and a ban on Sowore’s accounts, but the activist and the platforms refused.

The amended charge specifically cites Sowore’s posts on his official X and Facebook handles, accusing him of knowingly sending false messages intended to threaten public safety or disrupt order, in violation of Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

Justice Umar had earlier granted Sowore bail on self-recognisance, noting his status as a former presidential candidate and his surrender of his international passport. The court barred him from making statements that could jeopardize peace and security, warning that any violation could lead to the revocation of bail.