Mixed Reactions: SERAP, NANS, Others React to DSS Suspension of Sowore Trial
The decision of the Department of State Services (DSS) to suspend the cybercrime prosecution of journalist and activist, Omoyele Sowore, until after the 2027 general elections has drawn mixed reactions from civil society organisations, student bodies and the defendant himself, with some welcoming the move while others insist the charges should be withdrawn entirely.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged the Federal Government and the DSS to immediately discontinue the prosecution, describing the charges against Sowore as unfounded and inconsistent with his constitutional rights.
SERAP’s Deputy Director, Mr. Kolawole Oluwadare, argued that merely postponing the case until after the 2027 presidential election does not address the underlying issue.
According to him, the charges should never have been filed in the first place and should now be withdrawn completely.
The organisation also called on the Federal Government to end what it described as the continued harassment and intimidation of Sowore over the peaceful exercise of his fundamental human rights.
Sowore’s lead counsel, Mr. Olumide Fusika (SAN), also criticised the DSS over the manner in which it announced the suspension of the case.
He faulted the agency for making the decision public through a statement without first informing the defence team, describing the approach as inconsistent with established legal practice and courtroom procedure.
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In contrast, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) welcomed the DSS’s decision, describing it as a positive demonstration of respect for democratic principles and the integrity of the electoral process.
Addressing journalists in Akure, Ondo State, NANS President, Comrade Babatunde Akinteye, said the suspension reflected the agency’s commitment to fairness, due process, the rule of law and credible elections.
Similarly, the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) endorsed the decision, saying it would help guarantee a level playing field for all presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
The National President of NAPS, Jimoh Ibrahim Ajadi, said postponing the trial would prevent unnecessary distractions and allow all contestants to participate in the electoral process on equal terms.
However, Sowore rejected the DSS’s decision, insisting that suspending the prosecution was insufficient.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, the former presidential candidate maintained that the security agency should withdraw the charges entirely, terminate the prosecution and tender a public apology.
He argued that the decision to seek an adjournment suggested the DSS had realised it could not successfully sustain the case in court.
Sowore further accused security agencies of attempting to influence judicial processes, insisting that the DSS had no legal authority to unilaterally suspend a criminal trial it initiated without following due process.
The differing reactions underscore the continuing debate over the balance between national security, freedom of expression and the administration of justice, as stakeholders remain divided on the implications of the DSS’s decision to halt the high-profile prosecution until after the 2027 general elections.
By PRNigeria
