Nigeria TV Info Court Remands Sowore in Prison Over Bail Breach, Dismisses Recusal Application

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of activist, politician, and publisher Omoyele Sowore at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the hearing of his application for a stay of execution after the court earlier revoked his bail. The presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, also dismissed Sowore's application seeking the judge's recusal from the ongoing trial over allegations of bias.

The latest development follows the court's decision to revoke Sowore's bail after he failed to appear for a scheduled hearing. The judge ruled that the reasons provided for his absence were insufficient and consequently issued a bench warrant before his eventual appearance in court.

During Monday's proceedings, Sowore represented himself after informing the court that his legal team had withdrawn from the case, citing concerns over previous courtroom proceedings. He urged the judge to step aside, alleging bias, but the prosecution opposed the request, arguing that it lacked merit and was intended to delay the trial.

Justice Umar dismissed the recusal application and ordered that Sowore remain in custody until the hearing of his motion seeking a stay of execution of the bail revocation order. The matter was adjourned to June 24, 2026, for further proceedings.

The case, instituted by the Department of State Services (DSS), centres on allegations that Sowore made defamatory and false statements against President Bola Tinubu through posts published on social media platforms. Sowore has consistently challenged the charges and maintains his innocence.