Proceedings in the alleged cybercrime case involving activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, have been adjourned to June 30, 2026, for further hearing.

The case, which has continued to draw public attention due to its implications for freedom of expression and digital rights, returned to court as both the prosecution and defence advanced their positions before the presiding judge.

At the close of proceedings, the court fixed June 30 for the continuation of the matter, with expectations that arguments and pending applications may be further addressed when the case resumes.

The court had, on Monday, revoked the bail earlier granted to Sowore on self-recognition in December 2025 and ordered his remand in the Kuje Correctional Centre following his absence at the previous proceedings.

Before revoking the bail, Justice Umar had directed Sowore to open his defence in the alleged cybercrime case instituted against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).

At Wednesday’s proceedings, Sowore’s counsel, R.O. Adakonye, who appeared for Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), informed the court that the matter was scheduled for hearing of the defence application seeking to set aside the bench warrant and the order revoking the defendant’s bail.

He argued that the application arose from Sowore’s absence in court on June 16, 2026.

Counsel to the prosecution, A.T. Kehinde (SAN), opposed the application, informing the court that he had filed a counter-affidavit urging the court to dismiss the request and uphold both the bench warrant and the order revoking Sowore’s bail.

After hearing both parties, Justice Umar adjourned the matter until June 30 for ruling on the application.

Following the adjournment, the defence urged the court to release Sowore into counsel’s custody, with an undertaking to produce him on the next adjourned date.

The judge declined the request and ordered that Sowore be returned to the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the court’s decision.

The DSS is prosecuting Sowore over alleged cybercrime arising from posts he made on his X and Facebook accounts in August 2025, in which he allegedly referred to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal.” The agency alleges that the posts constitute offences under the applicable cybercrime laws.

Sowore, a prominent activist and publisher, is facing allegations bordering on cybercrime, charges he has consistently challenged. The case has generated widespread debate among civil society groups, legal practitioners and political observers across the country.

 

More details to follow.