DSS seeks adjournment of Sowore's cybercrime case until after 2027 election
The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly directed its counsel to seek an adjournment of the cybercrime case against AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore until after the 2027 presidential election. The move, according to a source, aims to allow Sowore full participation in electioneering without court proceedings hindering his political activities.
DSS instituted the case in September 2025 over Sowore's social media posts calling President Tinubu a "criminal," made on August 25, 2025. After a seven-day ultimatum to remove the posts expired, DSS filed suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, initially joining X and Meta before they were struck out. Sowore pleaded not guilty, calling the prosecution politically motivated.
DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi met with legal advisors on August 20, 2026, shortly after INEC lifted the 2027 campaign ban. Ajayi reportedly stated that with campaigns commencing, it would be fair to pause the case to enable Sowore's participation. The source noted the case has been in court nearly a year, and a four-month suspension wouldn't significantly impact proceedings. Formal communication to court is expected September 14, 2026, after judicial vacation. Sowore remains on self-recognition bail and continues political activities ahead of 2027.
This development raises questions about the balance between legal accountability and electoral fairness. Will this adjournment set a precedent for how legal cases against politicians are handled during election seasons, or does it risk appearing as preferential treatment that undermines equal application of the law?