DSS Seeks Adjournment of Sowore Cybercrime Case Until After 2027 Election

Following a gathering on August 20 with high-ranking personnel, the Department of State Services instructed its counsel Akinolu Kehinde, SAN, to file a motion requesting postponement of cybercrime allegations leveled against African Action Congress presidential hopeful Omoyele Sowore. The case would be paused until after January 16, 2027, when the presidential election is scheduled, based on directives from DSS leadership.

The allegations arise from Sowore's August 25, 2025 posts distributed via X and Facebook, where he purportedly labeled President Bola Tinubu a criminal. The DSS brought this before judicial authorities to assess whether such statements contravened applicable law.

Security agency representatives defended the pause by noting that eliminating this legal obstacle would permit Sowore's complete engagement in campaign activities during the electoral period. Through deferring prosecution beyond the vote, officials contended, impediments to his candidacy would vanish.

In turn, Sowore signaled intention to run in 2027, claiming the paused prosecution would cease being relevant following the election outcome. This action by Nigeria's security apparatus concerning a legal matter touching a political opponent of the sitting president represents a significant shift from conventional practice.

The proceedings, initiated and pursued by the DSS itself, had been active in court before this directive. The deferment bears consequences for Sowore's near-term legal jeopardy and his ability to pursue electoral activities free from pending criminal allegations.