Journalists Blocked from Covering Sowore's Trial in Abuja

On Tuesday, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, journalists were prevented from entering the courtroom to cover the trial of human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore. The trial is set against the backdrop of charges filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), which Sowore claims are politically motivated and refer to President Bola Tinubu as a criminal.

The courtroom was heavily secured, with armed personnel blocking access, which left many journalists stranded in the foyer despite initial assurances that they would be allowed entry later in the morning. The trial follows Sowore's remand on June 22, 2026, and Justice Moham Umar is presiding over the bail application hearing.

The incident has raised fresh concerns regarding media freedom and transparency in the judicial process, particularly in cases involving prominent government critics.