JUST-IN: Court strikes out cyberstalking case against Sowore

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday struck out the cyberstalking case filed against human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, bringing an end to a legal battle that had drawn widespread criticism.

The case, instituted under the Cybercrime Act by former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, stemmed from Sowore’s description of him as an “illegal IGP.”

The court’s decision followed an application by Sowore’s legal team, which argued that the charges were frivolous, lacked merit, and amounted to an abuse of court process.

During proceedings, the defence had challenged the legitimacy of the trial, maintaining that the case was being used to harass the activist and restrict his fundamental rights.

Sowore had earlier described the prosecution as politically motivated, alleging that it formed part of a broader pattern of repression.

He claimed the case led to the seizure of his passport in January 2025 and limited his movement.

He also criticised the conduct of the prosecution, questioning the absence of key witnesses despite multiple court appearances, and alleging irregularities during proceedings, including the treatment of his legal team in court.

The activist maintained that legal actions against him have historically failed, insisting that the case would not be different.

He further declared his intention to continue political mobilisation and advocacy against what he described as entrenched political interests in the country.

The now-dismissed suit had attracted national attention, with civil society organisations raising concerns over the use of cybercrime laws against critics, warning that such actions could undermine freedom of expression.

As of the time of filing this report, it remains unclear whether authorities will appeal the ruling or file fresh charges.

However, the decision is expected to have broader implications for similar cases involving cyberstalking allegations and free speech in Nigeria.

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