Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, where the Federal Government moved to arraign him on a five-count charge.
Diaspora Digital Media gathered that Sowore is accused of using his verified X handle to publish a post against President Bola Tinubu, allegedly intended to cause public disorder.
The case also lists X Corporation and Meta (owners of Facebook) as co-defendants.
The controversial post, made on August 25, read: “This criminal @officialPBAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”
According to the charge sheet, the statement contravenes Section 24(2)(b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024.
Prosecutors argue that the comment was made within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court and posed a risk of disrupting public peace.
Sowore was seen entering the courtroom on Tuesday morning, drawing the attention of journalists and supporters.
Court officials confirmed that the activist would be arraigned alongside the tech companies in connection with the case.
The government claims the post went beyond free expression and amounted to spreading false information about the president, which could incite unrest.
Legal analysts note that the inclusion of X Corporation and Meta as defendants raises fresh concerns about liability for social media platforms in Nigeria.
The case may set a precedent on how digital platforms are held responsible for user content under the country’s cybercrime laws.
The trial continues as Sowore faces possible penalties if convicted.
Neither Sowore nor his legal team has yet made a public statement on the charges.
