By Peter Omopo
Abuja | August 27, 2025 – The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the arraignment of former presidential candidate and activist, Omoyele Sowore, in a case filed against him by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over alleged forgery and public incitement.
Sowore and his media platform, Sahara Reporters, are facing a three-count charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/374/2025) bordering on conspiracy, forgery of an official police wireless message, and publication of false information with intent to incite mutiny.
At Wednesday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel Wisdom Madaki told the court that Sahara Reporters, listed as the second defendant, had not yet been served with the charges. He explained that efforts to serve the online platform through conventional channels had failed, prompting an application for substituted service through newspaper publication.
Justice Emeka Nwite granted the request and adjourned the matter until September 15, 2025, to allow proper service of the charges before the defendants’ plea is taken.
According to the charge sheet, Sowore and Sahara Reporters allegedly conspired to forge a police wireless message dated July 30, 2025, purportedly signed by the Principal Staff Officer to the IGP. The document was said to have been circulated to stir disaffection within the Nigeria Police Force.
Another count accuses Sowore of posting a fake police signal and other “inciting materials” on his Facebook page on July 31, 2025, allegedly aimed at provoking police officers and members of the public to revolt against the Federal Government.
The prosecution noted that the offences contravene Section 1(2)(C) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, Cap M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, and Section 114 of the Penal Code Law.
Sowore, who has had previous confrontations with security agencies over his activism and publications, was present in court during the proceedings. His formal plea to the charges is now expected at the next sitting.
