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DSS Orders Probe Into Alleged Manhandling of Sowore at Court, Defends Due Process in Cybercrime Trial
The Department of State Services (DSS) has ordered an immediate investigation into the alleged conduct of its operatives following an incident involving activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The directive was issued by the Director-General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, amid public concerns over events that occurred on June 22, 2026, after a court ordered Sowore’s remand in Kuje Correctional Centre.
In a statement signed on Tuesday by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the Service said it was particularly concerned about scenes showing an altercation between Sowore and a correctional official, as well as a reported scuffle involving DSS operatives. The agency also noted that Sowore eventually chose to leave the court premises in a DSS vehicle rather than one belonging to the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The DSS said the investigation was aimed at establishing the facts surrounding the incident and ensuring accountability where necessary.
While announcing the probe, the Service defended its handling of the case against Sowore, insisting that it has consistently adhered to due process and the rule of law. According to the DSS, the charges against the activist stem from a social media post made on August 25, 2025, which it described as disparaging to President Bola Tinubu.
The agency stated that it initially sought a retraction through a formal letter rather than resorting to arrest, in line with the Director-General’s preference for non-coercive resolution of disputes. It cited similar approaches in previous cases involving public figures and media organisations.
The DSS further explained that it filed charges under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, to seek judicial interpretation of the legality of the statements attributed to Sowore.
The Service maintained that Sowore was granted bail on self-recognition at the commencement of trial and stressed that his subsequent remand resulted solely from court proceedings, not from any opposition by the DSS.