By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday granted Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), ₦200 million bail in his alleged cybercrime case. Justice Mohammed Umar approved the bail after hearing arguments from both parties. The court also imposed strict conditions, including two sureties and the surrender of Sowore’s international passport, while the trial continues over allegations that he made false claims against President Bola Tinubu on social media.
Court Sets Strict Bail Conditions
Justice Umar directed Sowore to produce two sureties before enjoying the bail.
One surety must be a traditional ruler from Sowore’s community. The second must own landed property in Abuja.
In addition, the court ordered Sowore to deposit his international passport with the Deputy Chief Registrar pending the conclusion of the trial.
The prosecution will verify both sureties before the bail takes effect.
Sowore Released to Lawyers
Following the ruling, Justice Umar released Sowore into the custody of his legal team.
The court also adjourned the matter until Monday, July 6, when Sowore is expected to begin presenting his defence.
Previous Remand Order
Earlier this month, Justice Umar ordered Sowore’s remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.
The judge ruled that Sowore should remain in custody pending the hearing and determination of his application seeking a stay of the order revoking his earlier bail and issuing a bench warrant.
Court Rejects Recusal Request
Before granting the fresh bail, the court dismissed Sowore’s application requesting Justice Umar to withdraw from the case.
Sowore had argued that the judge was biased. However, the court found no sufficient basis to support the request.
DSS Accuses Sowore of False Claims
The Department of State Services (DSS) is prosecuting Sowore under alleged cybercrime charges.
According to the prosecution, Sowore described President Bola Tinubu as “a criminal” in posts published on his X and Facebook accounts.
The DSS argues that the statements violated provisions of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.
Trial Continues
With bail now granted under strict conditions, the case will proceed to the defence stage.
The court will resume proceedings on July 6, when Sowore is expected to open his defence against the allegations.
