The scheduled arraignment of Omoyele Sowore, Publisher of Sahara Reporters, was postponed on Wednesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja due to the non-appearance of Sahara Reporters.
Sowore and Sahara Reporters face a three-count charge brought by the police, including allegations of forgery, defamation, and incitement to mutiny.
These accusations stem from a series of investigative reports published by Sahara Reporters concerning a purported police promotion scandal, alongside Sowore’s involvement in demonstrations organized by retired police officers advocating for pension reforms.
During proceedings, Justice Emeka Nwite was informed that the summons had not yet been served on the second defendant, Sahara Reporters, which led to the adjournment.
The prosecution confirmed that alternative service methods, including public notification of the summons, had been employed successfully to reach the defendant.
As a result, the court rescheduled the arraignment for September 15, 2025.
Details of the Charges
One of the formal charges states:
“That you, Omoyele Sowore and Sahara Reporters, on or about July 30, 2025, within the jurisdiction of this court, conspired to commit a felony, specifically forgery, in violation of Section 1(2)(c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.”
Context and Implications
This case highlights ongoing tensions between media outlets and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria, especially regarding investigative journalism that exposes alleged corruption. Similar legal challenges have been faced by other journalists in recent years, reflecting broader concerns about press freedom and accountability.
Notably, the court has also ordered financial institutions to release Sowore’s bank records to the police, intensifying scrutiny on the activist and his media organization.
The outcome of this case could set important precedents for how allegations of forgery and defamation are handled in relation to press activities in Nigeria.
Stay tuned for updates as the case progresses toward the next hearing date.
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