Court Rejects Sowore's Alleged Evidence in Tinubu Defamation Case
The Federal High Court in Abuja has dealt a significant blow to activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore's defense in his ongoing defamation trial. On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Justice Mohammed Umar rejected an exhibit that Sowore attempted to tender, which alleged that President Bola Tinubu had made derogatory remarks about former President Goodluck Jonathan back in 2011.
Key Evidence Declined by the Court
The controversial document claimed that Tinubu referred to Jonathan as a "drunkard" and a "sinking fisherman." However, Justice Umar declined to admit it as evidence, citing the testimony of the witness through whom Sowore sought to present it. The witness, Mr. Cyril Nosike of the Department of State Services (DSS), who was identified as the first prosecution witness, explicitly distanced himself from the document during the proceedings.
Justice Umar stated in court, "The witness has confirmed he is not aware that President Tinubu made such remarks against ex-President Jonathan." This rejection marks a pivotal moment in the case, as Sowore's legal team had hoped to use this evidence to support their defense against defamation charges.
Legal Challenges and Witness Testimony
Counsel to the DSS, Mr. Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, argued against the admissibility of the exhibit, pointing out that it did not meet the requirements under the Evidence Act. He emphasized that Mr. Nosike was not the maker of the document and therefore could not authenticate it. During cross-examination, Nosike repeatedly denied any knowledge of the alleged statements and declined to comment on Tinubu's political actions from 2011.
When questioned about broader issues such as corruption in Nigeria, Nosike responded, "My Lord, he is asking for my opinion. I am not here to give an opinion." He further clarified that his role in monitoring cyberspace is strictly focused on national security matters, not political opinions or historical allegations.
Sowore's Defense Strategy and Case Background
Sowore's lawyer, Mr. Abubakar Marshal, attempted to link the witness to other high-profile cases, including the 2025 dismissal of 115 DSS officers and investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). However, Nosike denied any awareness of these matters, maintaining his focus on national security. This line of questioning was part of Sowore's broader defense strategy to challenge the credibility of the prosecution's case.
Sowore is facing trial for publishing defamatory content against President Tinubu on social media platforms on August 25, 2025. The federal government alleges that these posts were intended to tarnish the president's reputation and potentially cause a breakdown of law and order. He has pleaded not guilty to a two-count amended charge under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
Adjournment and Future Proceedings
Justice Umar has adjourned the case to March 5, 2026, to allow Sowore's counsel to continue cross-examining the witness. This adjournment provides both sides with additional time to prepare for the next phase of the trial, which could be crucial in determining the outcome.
Previously, the DSS had demanded that Sowore delete the contentious posts and requested a ban on his social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms (Facebook). Both Sowore and the platforms refused these requests, setting the stage for this legal battle. The case continues to attract significant public and media attention, highlighting the ongoing tensions between free speech and defamation laws in Nigeria.
