Court Issues Final Warning to Omoyele Sowore in Trial

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Muhammed Umar, issued a final warning to activist Omoyele Sowore concerning his ongoing criminal trial. During proceedings on Thursday, July 22, 2023, the court threatened to close Sowore's defense if he fails to continue it at the next hearing.

Sowore was present in court, but his legal team was absent, prompting arguments from both the defense and prosecution. Sowore explained that his lead counsel, Olumide Fusika, SAN, was in the United Kingdom for a court matter, and another lawyer, Rahpel Adakol, was outside the court's jurisdiction.

The prosecution, represented by Akinlolu Kehinde, opposed the request for adjournment, citing previous delays and an existing order for daily hearings. Justice Umar emphasized the need for a fair hearing and stated that the court cannot allow the trial to be indefinitely delayed.

The matter was adjourned until July 22, with a clear warning to Sowore regarding the continuation of his defense.