Sowore to Remain in Kuje Prison as Court Delays Ruling on Bail Application

Human rights activist and AAC presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, will remain in Kuje Correctional Centre after a Federal High Court in Abuja postponed its ruling on his application challenging the revocation of his bail.

Justice Muhammad Umar fixed June 30 to rule on Sowore’s request to set aside the bench warrant issued for his arrest and restore the bail earlier granted to him.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, Sowore’s lawyer, Raphael Adakole, who appeared for senior advocate Adeyinka Fusika (SAN), urged the court to reverse the order that revoked his client’s bail and ordered his remand.

The defence also sought Sowore’s temporary release into the custody of his legal team pending the ruling, citing health concerns and assuring the court of his continued attendance at future hearings.

However, the prosecution opposed the application, arguing that the defendant had not provided sufficient grounds for the court to exercise its discretion in his favour.

In his ruling, Justice Umar declined the request for temporary release, stating that granting it could amount to deciding the substantive application before delivering a formal ruling.

Sowore is facing charges linked to alleged defamatory social media posts in which he described President Bola Tinubu as “a criminal.”

The case, initially filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), is now being prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

Supporters of the activist gathered outside the court premises during the hearing, calling for his release as security operatives maintained a strong presence around the complex.