The Federal Government of Nigeria has amended its cyber-bullying case against activist and former presidential contender Omoyele Sowore, removing Meta Platforms Inc. (parent company of Facebook) and X Corp. (formerly Twitter) as co-defendants in the proceedings. The change was confirmed during a hearing at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the prosecution presented a revised two-count charge against Sowore alone.
Originally, the State Security Service (SSS) had filed a five-count charge in September 2025 naming Sowore, Meta and X for allegedly publishing posts on the social networks accusing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being “a criminal.” Following the amendment, the court formally struck out the names of the two technology companies from the charge sheet after prosecution counsel advised the judge that the amended indictment did not include them.
Under the revised charges, Sowore faces allegations linked to social media posts that the government claims were defamatory and capable of inciting public disorder, contrary to provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. Sowore has denied the allegations, entering a not guilty plea, and the matter has been adjourned for further hearing.
Supporters of free speech rights and civil liberties groups have expressed concern over the cyberbullying charge, saying it could set a precedent for how online criticism of public officials is treated under Nigerian law. The court’s next session on the case is scheduled for later this week.
