Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by Henry Owen
Abuja – The Federal Government arraigned human rights activist Omoyele Sowore before the Federal High Court, facing a five-count charge for allegedly posting false information intended to disrupt law and order. The case names X. Incorporation and Meta (Facebook) as co-defendants, reflecting the growing scrutiny of social media platforms in the dissemination of online content.
Sowore, a well-known activist and publisher, is accused of using his official X handle to publish a post claiming that President Bola Tinubu had traveled to Brazil and stated there was no corruption under his administration. The post 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!”
The Federal Government alleges that the post violates Section 24(2)(b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024, which criminalizes the transmission of false information intended to incite public disorder or disrupt national peace. According to the charge sheet, the post was published on August 25, 2025, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Abuja, giving the court authority to preside over the matter.
During the brief arraignment, Sowore appeared calm, representing himself while the prosecution outlined the charges. Legal observers noted that the inclusion of social media companies as defendants highlights the evolving role of platforms in regulating content and ensuring accountability under Nigerian law. The case also raises broader questions about the balance between freedom of expression and national security in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly online.
Public reactions have been varied. Supporters of Sowore and civil liberties groups decried the arraignment as an infringement on free speech, emphasizing the need for courts to carefully interpret the law without stifling dissent. One prominent activist tweeted, “Holding individuals accountable for their posts is different from criminalizing criticism. The government must tread carefully to protect free expression while maintaining order.”
On the other hand, government officials and legal analysts stress the importance of enforcing the Cybercrimes Act to prevent destabilizing misinformation. They argue that false claims about high-ranking officials can erode public trust, incite unrest, and jeopardize national security if left unchecked. A senior legal practitioner noted, “The law is clear on posts that are deliberately intended to mislead the public and provoke disorder. Enforcement is necessary to maintain stability.”
The arraignment comes amid increasing concern about the role of social media in shaping public opinion and influencing national discourse. Platforms like X and Meta have faced global scrutiny for the content they host, with governments pushing for mechanisms to verify information and prevent harmful or false messaging. Analysts suggest that the inclusion of these companies as co-defendants may serve as a precedent in Nigeria, signaling heightened accountability for platforms that host content capable of affecting public order.
Observers also point out that Sowore’s case is likely to spark discussions about the boundaries of activism and criticism in the digital age. Legal scholars emphasize that while citizens have the right to critique government policies and leaders, the law provides limits when statements are demonstrably false and carry the potential to incite societal unrest.
Political commentators note that the proceedings will test the judiciary’s ability to balance civil liberties with national security concerns. They argue that the outcome may have far-reaching implications for activists, journalists, and social media users, setting benchmarks for how online speech is regulated in Nigeria.
Sowore’s legal team is expected to challenge the charges, highlighting issues such as intent, the factual basis of the allegations, and the interpretation of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024. Court observers anticipate a series of hearings as the defense and prosecution present evidence and arguments, which could unfold over several weeks.
As the trial progresses, public attention is likely to remain high, reflecting broader debates on governance, accountability, and the role of social media in modern Nigerian society. For now, Sowore remains under the scrutiny of the law, while the nation watches to see how freedom of expression and regulatory enforcement will be reconciled in the digital era.
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