The Department of State Services (DSS) has shocked the nation by initiating a five-count legal action against renowned human rights activist Omoyele Sowore on September 16, 2025, Abuja Nigeria.
The case, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, controversially includes major social media companies 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) and Meta (Facebook) as co-defendants.
This bold move raises serious concerns about freedom of expression and the growing reach of state power over digital platforms.
Social Media Platforms Implicated for Content Oversight
For the first time, social media giants 𝕏 and Meta are caught in the crossfire.
The Nigerian government prosecution related to content posted by users critical of the presidency.
According to court documents sighted on Tuesday, these companies appeared as defendants alongside Sowore in case number FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2015.
Initiated by the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The DSS accuses these companies of failing to prevent or take down posts allegedly defamatory against President Bola Tinubu.
The platforms face indirect blame for allowing content that the government claims incites unrest and spreads falsehoods.
Sowore’s Alleged Defamatory Posts
The controversial case centers on posts Sowore made on August 25 and 26, 2025, via his official 𝕏 account and Facebook page.
The activist labeled President Tinubu a “criminal” and accused him of dishonesty and corruption during an official trip to Brazil.
DSS charges claim Sowore’s statements are baseless, intended to tarnish the president’s image and provoke public disorder.
The agency specified that these actions violate the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and sections of the Criminal Code Act.
Breakdown of Charges in Detail
The charge sheet breaks down the five counts with disturbing implications for dissent in Nigeria:
- Count One & Two: Sowore faces charges for knowingly posting false information on the 𝕏 and Facebook platforms, the DSS alleges these posts were designed to disrupt law and order within the country.
- Count Three & Four: These counts focus directly on defamation, specifically targeting Sowore’s alleged damage to President Tinubu’s personal and public reputation.
- Count Five: Sowore is accused of publishing false information with the intent to cause public fear and disturbance, a charge frequently wielded by Nigerian authorities to silence critics.
A Threat to Free Speech and Democratic Space?
This highly controversial prosecution signals an aggressive clampdown on political dissent and online freedom of expression.
The inclusion of multinational social media companies in Nigerian courts represents an escalating effort to control digital narratives.
Critics argue the DSS’s approach exemplifies undue suppression of opposition voices.
The government’s readiness to criminalize questioning of leadership fuels fears that Nigeria is sliding toward authoritarian rule.
Sowore’s supporters warn that the case is a chilling message to activists and journalists who criticize the president or government policies.
By targeting not only Sowore but also tech companies, the government attempts to widen its reach of censorship a deeply worrying trend.
Legal Experts Question Suitability and Intent
Legal analysts observing the case note that existing laws cited by DSS are vague and ripe for misuse.
The Cybercrimes Amendment Act of 2024 has been criticized for its broad definitions.
Enabling arbitrary arrests and prosecutions on nebulous grounds such as “falsehoods” or “public disturbance.”
Moreover, the liabilities imposed on 𝕏 and Meta raise serious issues about jurisdiction and corporate responsibility.
Experts argue platforms shouldn’t be liable for user content under Nigerian law, warning of dangerous legal precedents.
The Role of Technology Firms Under Scrutiny
Including 𝕏 and Meta draws global focus on social media’s role in moderating content amid political hostility.
If Nigerian courts hold tech giants liable, they may face increased pressure to comply with government censorship.
This risks undermining global norms of digital rights and freedom.
Sowore’s Fight Is More Than Personal
His outspoken criticism of the establishment has cost him arrests and imprisonment.
This new case intensifies the fight over Nigeria’s democratic future and the space for dissent.
Whatever the court decides, the public has reignited debate on power abuse, justice, and digital rights.
Wahalaupdate Analysis: Clash of Power and Speech in the Digital Era
At Wahalaupdate, this development represents a critical flashpoint.
Government efforts to silence Sowore and involve social media reveal dangerous escalation in restricting free speech.
Readers deserve to question if Nigeria protects democracy or undermines it via legal intimidation and surveillance.
This viral story reflects all citizens’ rights to criticize power without harassment or censorship threats.
