Amanze Chinonye
The Federal Government has filed a five-count charge against activist Omoyele Sowore and the social media companies X Corp. And Meta (Facebook) over allegations of cyberbullying, false publication and defamation of President Tinubu.
According to court documents obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025 was filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja. Prosecutors allege that Sowore used his verified X handle (@YeleSowore) and Facebook account in August 2025 to publish statements described as false and capable of inciting public disorder.
The charge sheet lists five counts.
• Count One: On or about August 25, 2025, Sowore allegedly used his X account to post the message: “THIS CRIMINAL @OFFICIAL PBAT ACTUALLY WENT TO BRAZIL TO STATE THAT THERE IS NO MORE CORRUPTION UNDER HIS REGIME IN NIGERIA. WHAT AUDACITY TO LIE SHAMELESSLY!” The prosecution claims he knew the statement was false and intended to provoke a breakdown of law and order, contrary to Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
• Count Two: A similar message allegedly posted on Facebook on August 26, 2025, also under the cybercrime law.
• Count Three: Knowingly publishing defamatory material against the personality and reputation of President Tinubu on X on August 25, 2025, contrary to Section 375 of the Criminal Code Act.
• Count Four: Publishing the same allegedly defamatory statement on Facebook on August 26, 2025, contrary to Section 375 of the Criminal Code Act.
• Count Five: With intent to cause public fear and disturbance, publishing false information on both X and Facebook on August 26, 2025, against the personality and reputation of the President, contrary to Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.
READ ALSO: DSS Moves Against Sowore’s X Account Over Tinubu Comment, Sparks Free Speech Concerns
Sowore, Lawyers Tackle DSS Over Demand to Ban Facebook Account
The government also joined X Corp. And Meta (Facebook) Inc. As co-defendants, alleging that the platforms enabled the distribution of the contested posts. NAN reports that the charge sheets, stamped September 16, 2025, claim the defendants’ actions were intended to cause a breakdown of law and order and incite individuals with divergent political views. The court is expected to announce a date for arraignment in the coming days.
Sowore’s Counter-Suit
In a swift response, Sowore’s legal team announced that they have filed two fundamental rights actions at the Federal High Court in Abuja against the State Security Service (SSS), Meta and X Corp.
Lawyer Tope Temokun said the suits challenge what they describe as unconstitutional censorship allegedly initiated by the SSS against Sowore’s social-media accounts.
The filings ask the court to declare that the SSS has no legal power to censor Nigerians on social media; that Meta and X must not lend their platforms as tools of repression; and that Sowore’s rights and by extension those of all Nigerians be fully protected against unlawful censorship. The suits argue that “censorship of political criticism is alien to democracy” and cite Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.
Temokun warned that if state agencies can dictate to global platforms who may speak and what may be said, “then no Nigerian is safe, their voices will be silenced at the whims of those in power.” He urged Nigerians, journalists and human-rights defenders to resist any attempt to turn the country into a “digital dictatorship.”
The Federal High Court is now expected to consider both the government’s criminal charges and Sowore’s fundamental rights applications in the coming weeks, setting the stage for a legal battle that could shape the boundaries of online speech and political criticism in Nigeria.
Amanze Chinonye is a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria. With a unique voice that blends tradition with modernity, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday Nigerian life, from the bustling markets of Lagos to the quiet villages of the countryside. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
