The Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has arraigned human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on a five-count charge.
Naija News reports that Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters, was brought before a court on Tuesday for allegedly publishing false information against President Tinubu with the intention of inciting public disorder.
According to the charges, Sowore was accused of using his social media platforms to circulate posts deemed injurious to the reputation of the president and capable of threatening national peace.
The activist, however, pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His legal team argued that the case was politically motivated and an attempt to silence dissenting voices critical of the government.
Meanwhile, rights groups and pro-democracy activists have condemned the trial, warning that prosecuting Sowore sets a dangerous precedent against freedom of expression in Nigeria.
The court adjourned the matter to a later date for continuation of hearing, while Sowore was granted bail under certain conditions.
