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A Federal High Court has ordered the remand of activist and former presidential candidate, Sowore, in Kuje Correctional Centre pending the commencement of his trial over alleged defamatory statements against President .
The court issued the order during proceedings on Monday after Sowore was arraigned on charges linked to statements said to have damaged the reputation of the President. Prosecutors alleged that the activist published and circulated claims considered defamatory under relevant provisions of Nigerian law.
During the hearing, the prosecution urged the court to remand the defendant while preparations for trial continue. Counsel to Sowore, however, argued for bail, maintaining that the allegations against his client were bailable and that he posed no flight risk.
After listening to submissions from both parties, the presiding judge directed that Sowore be remanded in Kuje prison and adjourned the matter to a later date for further proceedings and consideration of bail applications.
The case has attracted widespread public attention, given Sowore’s profile as a prominent government critic and political activist. Supporters of the activist have expressed concern over the development, while legal observers say the proceedings could test the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of individual reputations under Nigerian law.
The court emphasized that the defendant remains innocent until proven guilty and that the trial would provide an opportunity for both the prosecution and the defence to present their cases.
Further hearings are expected in the coming weeks as the legal process unfolds.
