DSS Seeks to Suspend Cyber-Bullying Case Against Omoyele Sowore

The Department of State Services (DSS) has instructed its private counsel to request a suspension of a cyber-bullying case against Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate for the African Action Congress, until after the January 16, 2027, presidential election. The case originated from August 2025 social media posts in which Sowore called President Bola Tinubu a "criminal."

Director-General Tosin Ajayi decided to pause the proceedings following the Independent National Electoral Commission's lifting of the campaign ban. Ajayi stated that the suspension would allow Sowore to participate in the elections "without let or hindrance." The DSS intends to formally communicate this request to the Federal High Court starting September 14, 2026, following the annual judicial vacation.

The African Action Congress rejected the decision, arguing that Nigerian criminal procedure does not permit the indefinite suspension of criminal trials. The party demanded the complete discontinuation of the prosecution, an apology to Sowore, and the return of his passport and electronic devices. Additionally, the party called for the removal of Tosin Ajayi, accusing the DSS of weaponizing state institutions for political harassment.