Sowore Declines Defense in Cyberbullying Trial Against Tinubu

Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Report, refused to open his defense in a cyberbullying trial concerning allegations that he described President Bola Tinubu as a criminal via social media. During the court proceedings, Sowore's prosecuting counsel, Akinlolu Kehind, informed Justice Moham Umar that the defense was absent, as Sowore's legal team was not present.

Sowore stated that he was attempting to assemble a new legal team and had filed a motion seeking the recusal of Justice Umar from the trial. The motion was filed on Thursday and served to the prosecution on Friday morning.

The prosecution did not object to the application, which was noted to have technical flaws. Justice Umar adjourned the case until June 15, 2026, to allow for a thorough review of the application and case files, emphasizing the need for a fair hearing.