Authorities at the Nigerian Police Headquarters in Abuja have taken legal action against activist Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of making online statements that could incite disorder.
One of the contentious posts on social media allegedly read: “The illegal IG of Nigeria Police Force, Kayode Egbetokun, will make the next #ENDSARS inevitable!”
Sowore is facing three charges under Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc..) Act, 2015, which was amended in 2024.
The case, registered under suit number FCH/ABJ/23/25, accuses him of knowingly spreading false information with the intent to disrupt public order.
The police claim that Sowore referred to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, as “illegal” on his verified social media account, an act they argue was intended to provoke unrest. The charge sheet outlines:
Count One: Posting messages on December 13, 2024, where he allegedly called the IGP “illegal,” knowing the statement to be false and likely to incite disorder.
Count Two: Making statements aimed at turning Nigerians against the police and damaging the reputation of the IGP and the force.
Count Three: Posting on December 20, 2024, that Egbetokun’s actions would make another #ENDSARS protest inevitable.
The police assert that these remarks were designed to undermine law enforcement and provoke public unrest.
Sowore is scheduled to be arraigned before Justice Liman of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday. His legal defence will be led by Marshall Abubakar.
The activist was arrested on Monday after rejecting bail conditions set by the police, following allegations of obstructing public officials and cyberstalking.