Court revokes Sowore’s bail, orders his arrest

A Federal High Court in Abuja has revoked the bail earlier granted to the presidential candidate of the

African Action Congress (AAC) and online publisher, Omoyele Sowore, who is being prosecuted for alleged criminal defamation.

Justice Mohammed Umar, in a ruling on Tuesday, said Sowore was absent from court without providing any cogent reason.

Justice Umar issued a bench warrant for Sowore’s arrest to compel his presence in court.

Sowore is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly making false claims against President Bola Tinubu by calling him “a criminal” in posts he made on his “X” and Facebook accounts.

Justice Umar’s ruling on Monday was on the application by prosecuting lawyer Akinlolu Kehinde, who faulted the letter written by Sowore, seeking an adjournment.

The judge noted that, while the defendant was absent on Tuesday, he chose to send a letter requesting that the case be adjourned until either July 2, 3, 15, or 17, or September 8 or 9, or on any subsequent date the court may deem convenient.

He observed that the defendant provided no reason as to why the adjournment he sought should be granted.

Justice Umar noted that Sowore is aware of the court’s earlier order that the case shall henceforth be heard on a day-to-day basis