Sowore, alongside global tech giants X (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms (Facebook), is facing a five-count criminal charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) on behalf of the Federal Government.
Alleged Offences
According to court papers, Sowore is accused of using his official X handle (@YeleSowore) to publish a post on 25 August 2025, describing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as “a criminal” who lied about corruption during a visit to Brazil. The DSS claims the post, and a similar one published on his Facebook page the following day, were intended to incite public disorder.
The charges cite alleged breaches of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2024 as well as Sections 375 and 59 of the Criminal Code, which
cover defamation and publication of false information.Courtroom Drama
At Tuesday’s sitting, Sowore’s lead counsel, Abubakar Marshall, argued that his client had not been formally served with the charges, making it impossible to proceed with the arraignment. The court also noted that X had no legal representation present, while Professor Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) appeared for Meta.
The Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Babadoko Abubakar, disputed the claim of non-service. However, trial judge Justice Mohammed Garba reviewed the file and confirmed that Sowore had indeed not been served.
Following this, the prosecution sought and obtained an order to serve Sowore directly in open court, which was done. Sowore then invoked his right to three days to study the charges before taking a plea.
Next Steps
Despite objections from the prosecution, Justice Garba upheld the defence request and adjourned the matter.
“The Court will adjourn to the 27th day of October for the arraignment of the defendants,” Justice Garba ruled.
