Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has pleaded not guilty to the cybercrime charges leveled against him by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. The trial commenced today, January 29, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Liman.
Sowore is being prosecuted for calling Egbetokun an “Illegal IGP” on his verified X handle (formerly Twitter), a comment which the police allege constitutes cyberstalking. The activist entered the dock at approximately 10:00 AM as the court clerk read the charges.
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Despite several grammatical and spelling errors identified in the charges before the proceedings began, Sowore repeatedly affirmed his innocence, pleading “not guilty” to each count.
Protests Outside the Court
As the proceedings unfolded, a coalition of activists and civil society organizations staged a protest outside the courthouse. The protesters, who came to express their dissatisfaction with the charges, sang anti-government songs and demanded Sowore’s immediate release. They argued that his arrest and trial were politically motivated, stemming from his outspoken criticism of the Nigerian police and the government.
Protesters held placards with bold inscriptions, including:
- #FreeSoworeNow
- #EndPoliceBrutality
- #SackTheIGPNowForUnlawfulDetention
- #FreeAdaramolaNowAnd10Others
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High-Profile Solidarity
The courtroom witnessed a significant show of solidarity for Sowore. Among those present to support the activist were the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and former senator and human rights advocate, Shehu Sani. Their presence underscored the growing concern among stakeholders about the shrinking space for free speech and dissent in Nigeria.
Background to the Case
The charges against Sowore have drawn widespread criticism from both local and international observers, who view them as an attempt to suppress freedom of expression. Sowore has long been an outspoken critic of government policies and corruption, often using his platform to expose alleged misconduct by public officials.
The trial continues as activists and supporters rally to demand justice for Sowore and call for an end to what they describe as the misuse of cybercrime laws to silence dissenting voices.
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