DSS Files 5-Count Charge Against Omoyele Sowore Over Social Media Posts Calling Tinubu ‘Criminal’

The State Security Service (SSS), also known as the Department of State Services (DSS), has filed a five-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja against activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore over comments he made on social media platforms.

Sowore, in a statement posted online, revealed that the charges stem from remarks he made referring to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal”, a characterisation the DSS alleges constitutes a series of newly framed offences.

According to Sowore, the charges also name social media platforms X (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook. He described the allegations as “novel offences” invented by the DSS, suggesting that the case reflects a misuse of state power to stifle dissent.

“It’s hard to believe there’s anyone sensible left in these offices that should be making Nigeria work,” Sowore wrote. He added that despite the charges, he is prepared to appear in court when the case is assigned for trial. 

The activist, known for his involvement in the #RevolutionNow movement, has had multiple run-ins with Nigerian security agencies in the past, often linked to his outspoken criticism of government actions and policies.

Recently, his characterisation of President Bola Tinubu as a criminal has drawn significant attention. The Department of State Services (DSS) wrote to X Corporation and Meta, requesting a ban on his Facebook and X accounts.

In response, both corporations communicated with Sowore. However, the DSS also issued a demand for him to delete the post, which he firmly refused, stating that only President Tinubu has the authority to sue him, not the agency.

Sowore also pointed out that the agency is a public institution and not designed to cater to the whims of President Bola Tinubu.