Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) chairman Omoyele Sowore has concluded the cross-examination of a Department of State Services (DSS) witness in his ongoing trial over alleged defamation and cyberstalking of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
During Monday’s proceedings, defence counsel Abubakar Marshal questioned DSS operative Cyril Nosike, highlighting what the defence described as inconsistencies in the agency’s case.
Nosike told the court that the DSS did not seek approval from the president before filing charges. He also admitted he was unaware of previous court rulings, including a 2019 order directing the release of Sowore and Olawale Bakare, as well as a 2025 U.S. court decision involving alleged drug-related records linked to Tinubu.
The witness further stated he had no knowledge of reported internal disciplinary actions within the DSS or Nigeria’s ranking in Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index.
Tensions rose in court when the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, asked the defence to shorten its questioning. Although the defence complied, it expressed concerns over limitations placed on its cross-examination.
The case was adjourned to April 13, 2026, despite objections from the defence, who cited scheduling conflicts with activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking after the hearing, Marshal maintained that the defence remains committed to the legal process but argued that the prosecution’s case lacks substance.