False Claim Trial: DSS Urges Court to Dismiss Sowore's No-Case Submission

In a significant legal development, the Department of State Services (DSS) has formally requested the Federal High Court in Abuja to reject the no-case submission made by Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters. Sowore faces charges for allegedly making a false statement about President Bola Tinubu, specifically referring to him as 'a criminal' in social media posts. The DSS, represented by its counsel Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), contends that the prosecution has successfully presented enough evidence to establish a prima facie case against Sowore, thereby compelling him to enter his defense.

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through its witnesses, had been able to establish a prima facie case against the defendant

Sowore's legal team, led by Abubakar, has argued vehemently that the prosecution has fallen short of linking their client to the alleged offenses. They assert that crucial witnesses were not called, a deficiency they deem fatal to the prosecution's case. The defense's application seeks the dismissal of the two-count charge of cyberbullying, arguing that the evidence presented thus far does not substantiate the claims made against Sowore.

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the prosecution failed to link his client with the alleged offences

The proceedings highlight the ongoing legal battles surrounding freedom of speech and the use of social media in Nigeria. While Sowore's supporters may view this as a politically motivated prosecution, the DSS maintains that its actions are based on established legal grounds. The court's decision on May 8th will be pivotal, determining whether Sowore must present a defense or if the charges will be dismissed. This case resonates deeply within Nigeria's vibrant, yet often contentious, media and political landscape, where accusations against public figures can quickly escalate into legal disputes.

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the prosecution failed to call vital witnesses. He said this was fatal to the case of the prosecution.