Abuja Court Denies Sowore’s Bid to Delay Defamation Trial
The Federal High Court in Abuja has refused Omoyele Sowore’s request to adjourn his defamation trial until after the court’s annual vacation. Justice Mohammed Umar dismissed the application filed by Sowore’s lawyer and instead ordered the trial to resume on July 16. The Department of State Services is prosecuting Sowore for criminal defamation, cyberstalking and incitement over social media posts in which he allegedly called President Tinubu a criminal. During proceedings, DSS counsel opposed further delays, noting the court’s earlier decision for an accelerated, day-to-day hearing under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015. Justice Umar agreed that a long adjournment would conflict with this fast-track schedule. Sowore’s first defence witness, activist Deji Adeyanju, testified that President Tinubu had previously affirmed citizens’ right to criticise public officials. Video of the president’s remarks was replayed in court, and Adeyanju confirmed his prior role on Sowore’s legal team and his public comments on arrests.
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.