By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has defended the no-case submission filed by his legal team, insisting that the charges brought against him by the Federal Government lack merit and are politically motivated.
Speaking during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Sowore said the defence opted for a no-case submission after the prosecution presented only one witness — a Department of State Services (DSS) official responsible for social media — whose testimony he described as lacking credibility.
According to him, the witness was subjected to extensive cross-examination, which, he argued, exposed weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. He added that the court is expected to receive final submissions from both parties before ruling on whether the trial should proceed.
Sowore expressed confidence that the court would dismiss the charges, describing the case as frivolous and insufficient to establish a prima facie case. He explained that a no-case submission is a legal procedure through which the defence argues that the prosecution has failed to provide enough evidence to warrant further trial.
He noted that the judge had given both parties a timeline to respond on points of law, with a date set for the adoption of submissions. According to him, the process, though routine in criminal trials, highlights what he considers the weakness of the government’s case.
Controversy Over Remarks on the President
The case stems from comments made by Sowore in August 2025, when he referred to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal” on social media. The remark followed the president’s statement during an official visit to Brazil, where he reportedly said corruption had been eradicated in Nigeria.
The Federal Government subsequently charged Sowore with cyberstalking and defamation under the amended Cybercrimes Act.
Addressing the controversy, Sowore maintained that his comments were both a reaction to the president’s claim and rooted in what he described as historical context. He argued that his criticism was based on past allegations and public records, insisting that public office holders must be held accountable.
He further claimed that individuals who had previously raised similar allegations were not called to testify, which he said weakened the prosecution’s case. According to him, his remarks fall within the bounds of free expression.
Allegations of Political Persecution
Sowore described the charges as part of a broader pattern of political persecution, which he termed “lawfare” — the use of legal mechanisms to suppress dissent.
He alleged that his history of arrests, detentions, and multiple charges over the years reflects a deliberate effort by authorities to silence his activism. He cited previous cases, including allegations of treason and cybercrime, which he said collapsed due to lack of evidence.
The activist also criticised former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, alleging that multiple charges were filed against him following his criticism of police leadership and activities.
According to him, these included cases linked to protests, social media activity, and campaigns for police accountability. He claimed that some of the charges were later dismissed by the courts, reinforcing his position that the actions against him are targeted.
Confidence Amid Criticism of Judiciary
Despite criticising the Nigerian judiciary as flawed and inconsistent, Sowore said he remains confident of prevailing in court. He clarified that his confidence is rooted not in the system itself but in his belief in justice and the strength of his case.
He noted that engaging the legal system is necessary to challenge perceived injustices and expose institutional weaknesses, adding that he is prepared for any outcome, including imprisonment.
Ideology and Activism
Sowore also spoke on the ideological foundation of the “Revolution Now” movement, describing it as a non-violent campaign for systemic change in Nigeria. He said the movement evolved from grassroots activism and seeks to address inequality, corruption, and economic hardship.
He reiterated his long-standing involvement in pro-democracy struggles since the early 1990s, maintaining that his activism predates his political ambitions.
Role in #EndSARS
On the #EndSARS protests, Sowore claimed that his movement played a key role in initiating and sustaining the demonstrations against police brutality. He said the protests led to outcomes such as the release of detainees and some reforms within the police.
However, he argued that these changes remain insufficient, stressing the need for deeper structural reforms.
Call for Collective Action
Sowore concluded by urging Nigerians to take an active role in holding leaders accountable and pushing for systemic reform. He described the struggle for change as a long-term effort requiring persistence and collective participation.
According to him, meaningful transformation cannot be achieved through isolated actions but through sustained civic engagement.
