IDNN Justice Desk
Courtroom Drama, Political Undercurrents
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore appeared at a Federal High Court in Abuja to face charges under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act. The DSS accuses him of spreading “false claims” against President Bola Tinubu during recent protests. In a twist that drew global attention, X (Twitter) and Meta (parent company of Facebook) were joined as co-defendants.
“This is about silencing dissent. They want to criminalise free speech online.”
Adjourned, But Tension High
The case was adjourned until October 27 after Sowore complained he had not been properly served the charge sheet. Justice Emeka Nwite granted him three days to study the charges, but refused to halt proceedings. Outside court, Sowore told reporters: “This is about silencing dissent. They want to criminalise free speech online.”
Tech Giants in the Dock
For the first time in Nigeria, global social media companies are co-accused in a criminal case tied to political speech. Legal experts say this raises questions about liability for user content. “If upheld, this precedent could make platforms accountable for everything Nigerians post,” one lawyer warned.
📊 Key Charges at a Glance
- Cybercrimes Act 2015: “Spreading false information” provision.
- Criminal Code: Publication of statements deemed harmful to presidential image.
- Defendants: Sowore (primary), X (Twitter), Meta (secondary).
Ripple: Free Speech on Trial
If upheld, this precedent could make platforms accountable for everything Nigerians post,” ..”
Sowore’s allies frame the trial as part of a crackdown on dissent since subsidy protests. Critics argue the government risks branding itself intolerant by targeting activists through criminal codes. International NGOs are already monitoring, seeing the case as a barometer of Nigeria’s democratic tolerance.
Image Control vs Investor Optics
While the trial may boost the presidency’s control over online narratives, it risks deterring tech investment in Nigeria’s growing digital economy. Investors dislike regulatory uncertainty — especially when global platforms are dragged into local political disputes.
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