Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has described the criminal defamation case filed against him by Senator Ned Nwoko through the Nigeria Police as a matter that has “come to a dead end.”
Sowore made the remarks on Monday while speaking with journalists shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The long-running case, which also involves SaharaReporters Media Group, was again stalled and adjourned to June 30, 2026, after the presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, said he was unable to hear motions or take steps in the matter due to official engagements.
The judge noted that court activities on the day would be limited, urging all parties to exercise patience.
Reacting to the latest development, Sowore maintained that the case had dragged on for years without meaningful progress and had effectively collapsed under its own delays.
He also used the opportunity to congratulate the judge on his reported elevation to the Court of Appeal, wishing him well in his new role.
Speaking after court proceedings, counsel to Sowore and SaharaReporters Media Group, Tope Temokun and Abubakar Marshal, argued that the charges were based on provisions of the Cybercrimes Act that have since been amended, particularly sections relating to defamation.
They claimed that legislative changes made in 2024 removed criminal liability for certain defamation-related offences, which they say form the basis of the prosecution’s case.
According to the defence team, continuing the case amounts to an attempt to use outdated laws to pursue what they described as a personal vendetta, rather than a legitimate criminal prosecution.
They also criticised the prolonged delay in arraignment since 2022, describing the situation as a violation of fair hearing principles and due process.
The lawyers urged the Nigeria Police and relevant authorities to review the case, insisting that it lacks legal foundation and should be discontinued.
The matter was subsequently adjourned to June 30, 2026, for further hearing.
