- The judge also noted that evidence presented by prosecution witnesses confirmed that the social media post originated from Sowore’s account
- Sowore subsequently asked Justice Umar to withdraw from handling the case
Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the no-case submission filed by activist Omoyele Sowore in the cyberbullying case instituted against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Eko Hot Blog reports that the DSS accused Sowore of referring to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal” in a post shared on his X account.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Benue Mortician Arrested for Using Corpse Part as Walking Stick
- Baba Yusuf: Bandits May Reach National Assembly
- PDP Asks INEC To Withdraw Recognition Of Anyanwu As National Secretary
In his ruling, Justice Umar held that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against the activist and that he must respond to issues raised during the trial.
The judge also noted that evidence presented by prosecution witnesses confirmed that the social media post originated from Sowore’s account.
Following the ruling, Sowore, through his lawyer, requested permission to personally address the court, which was granted.
The activist told the judge that he had lost confidence in the court’s ability to give him a fair hearing, alleging that his lawyer had previously been humiliated by being ordered to kneel and that he had also faced harassment during the proceedings.
Sowore subsequently asked Justice Umar to withdraw from handling the case.
His legal team informed the court that a formal application seeking the judge’s recusal would be filed.
The matter was later adjourned until May 19 for continuation of proceedings, despite objections from Sowore’s counsel, Mr. Marshal, who argued that the date was not convenient.
FURTHER READING
