The State Security Service (SSS) has reversed its earlier directive to temporarily suspend the ongoing cyberstalking trial of human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore. The sudden policy shift marks a fresh turn in the protracted legal battle between the security agency and the publisher of SaharaReporters.
Under the initial directive issued on 30 August, the Director-General of the SSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, had instructed Mr Kehinde to initiate steps toward halting the legal proceedings. However, the latest development indicates that the security service has abandoned that plan, allowing the prosecution to proceed as originally scheduled.
The legal proceedings stem from allegations of cyberstalking brought against Mr Sowore by the security establishment. The case has attracted considerable public interest, drawing scrutiny from civil society groups and legal practitioners monitoring freedom of expression and state-citizen litigation in Nigeria.
Legal Proceedings and Background
The cyberstalking charges against Mr Sowore have progressed through various stages, characterized by intense legal arguments regarding free speech and cybercrime legislation in Nigeria. Critics and legal defenders have repeatedly raised concerns over the deployment of the Cybercrimes Act in prosecuting journalists, activists, and political critics.
According to details surrounding the SSS policy reversal, the prosecution team is expected to return to court for the continuation of the trial following the withdrawal of the suspension order.
Legal representatives for Mr Sowore have yet to issue a formal reaction to the latest directive from the SSS leadership. Meanwhile, court clerks have confirmed that hearing dates will be communicated to all parties involved as the judiciary resumes active proceedings on the matter.
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