DSS Seeks to Delay Sowore Cybercrime Trial Until After 2027 Election

The Department of State Services has instructed its legal representatives to petition for a postponement of proceedings against African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore. The hearing would be rescheduled beyond the January 16, 2027 presidential election.

Charges related to cybercrime centre on remarks Sowore posted via social media on August 25, 2025, wherein he described President Bola Tinubu in terms the DSS considers defamatory. Delaying the trial, according to the agency, would enable Sowore's participation in electoral campaigns without impediment from pending litigation.

Sowore responded by expressing faith in his prospects for the 2027 presidential contest, suggesting he regards the adjournment as advantageous to his campaign. His organization, however, rejected the suspension method.

The African Action Congress demanded instead that charges be fully dropped. Additionally, the AAC sought removal of DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi, contending that the security agency subjected Sowore to political persecution and infringed upon his fundamental rights.

Cases affecting candidates seeking other offices will likewise be subjected to comparable examination processes, the DSS indicated. The agency characterized its motion as aimed at obtaining a court interpretation regarding whether describing individuals as criminals in public statements violates the law.

It referenced efforts involving other political personalities, such as economist Pat Utomi, as precedent for such actions. The divergence separating the state security apparatus from the opposition party underscores tensions regarding judicial treatment of political expression during electoral periods.

As both an activist and politician, Sowore has faced numerous legal disputes following participation in earlier contests. A judicial decision on whether to grant the DSS's postponement request remains pending.