Court dismisses cyberbullying charge against Sowore, releases passport

The federal high court in Abuja has dismissed the cyberbullying charge filed against Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters, by Kayode Egbetokun, former inspector-general of police (IGP).

Musa Liman, the trial judge, on Tuesday, ruled that the prosecutor had failed to diligently prosecute the case.

In January 2025, Egbetokun arraigned Sowore on 16-count charges bordering on allegations of cybercrime.

The activist pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Prior to the arraignment, the police had invited Sowore for questioning over allegations of cyberstalking, negligent acts, and intimidation.

The police invitation was connected to a viral videowherein Sowore confronted officers who had stopped his vehicle at a checkpoint in Lagos.

He was subsequently granted bail by the court and asked to drop his passport as part of the bail conditions.

The case has witnessed a series of adjournments.

On March 17, the prosecution asked the court to adjourn the case to allow the team replace its lawyer.

However, Abubakar Marshall, counsel to Sowore, opposed the request and asked the court to dismiss the case.

In his ruling, Liman agreed with the objection of Sowore’s lawyer and struck out the charges for lack of diligent prosecution.

Subsequently, the police filed an ex parte motion seeking to relist the case for a fresh trial.

The police later withdrew the motion.

During the court proceedings on Tuesday, Liman struck out the application seeking to relist the case for fresh trial.

Sowore’s passport was then released through his lawyers. (The cable)