A Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected an application by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, seeking to postpone proceedings in his alleged cyberbullying trial until after the court’s annual vacation.
Justice Mohammed Umar dismissed the request yesterday, after Sowore’s counsel informed the court that the lead defence lawyer was out of the country and asked for a lengthy adjournment.
Counsel for the Department of State Services (DSS) opposed the application, arguing that the matter had suffered repeated delays at the instance of the defendant. The prosecution also reminded the court of its earlier directive for an accelerated hearing in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
In his ruling, Justice Umar held that granting another extended adjournment would defeat the court’s commitment to a speedy trial. “Granting another lengthy adjournment would undermine the court’s earlier order for an accelerated hearing”, the judge ruled.
The court subsequently fixed July 16 for the continuation of Sowore’s defence.
Earlier during the proceedings, defence witness Deji Adeyanju testified that President Bola Tinubu had publicly stated that Nigerians have the right to criticise and even insult him as part of democratic freedoms. Video clips of then President’s remarks were played before the court. However, under cross-examination, Adeyanju acknowledged that while the President encouraged free expression, he did not suggest that anyone who violated the law should be exempt from prosecution.
Sowore is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services over allegations of cyberbullying President Tinubu. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
