By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail on self-recognizance to human rights activist Omoyele Sowore in the case filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), over alleged defamation and cyberstalking of President Bola Tinubu.
Justice M. B. Umar approved the bail on Tuesday, noting that Sowore had consistently complied with previous bail terms, attended court proceedings, and posed no proven security risk.
He held that bail, as a constitutional right, cannot be denied on speculation.
Prosecution counsel Akinlolu Kehinde opposed the application, urging the court to impose strict conditions if bail was granted.
He insisted Sowore take his plea despite a pending objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction.
Defence counsel Marshal Abubakar argued that the allegations alone were insufficient to deny bail, citing Sowore’s record of compliance and the constitutional presumption of innocence.
The court dismissed the prosecution’s concerns over potential offences, ruling that no evidence supported the claim. Justice Umar, however, cautioned Sowore to conduct himself responsibly.
The case was adjourned to January 19, 2026.
