Court to Rule on Sowore’s Bail Revocation Petition
The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled June 30 to deliver its ruling on a petition filed by Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC). Sowore is contesting the revocation of his bail, which occurred during a prior court session.
Legal Proceedings and Arguments
Justice Mohammed Umar set the date following a plea from Sowore’s attorney, Rafael Adakor, who submitted a motion seeking to stay the execution of the bail revocation order. This motion was met with opposition from Akinkor Kehinde, the lawyer representing the Department of State Services (DSS).
Details of the Defense Motion
Before the case was called, Adakor informed the court that the hearing was specifically scheduled to address their application. He indicated that the motion, dated June 17, was filed in accordance with sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 (ACJA) and relevant clauses of the 1999 Constitution. Adakor requested the court to overturn the June 16 ruling that revoked Sowore’s bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest due to his absence in court.
Supporting Affidavit Submitted
The defense’s application included a comprehensive 25-paragraph affidavit sworn by Emmanuel Lally. Adakor urged the court to approve their requests in the spirit of justice, asserting that after receiving a counter-affidavit from the prosecution, they filed an additional affidavit on June 24. He also referenced a reply on points of law submitted on June 23.
Prosecution’s Opposition
In contrast, Kehinde fervently opposed Adakor’s application. He presented a 25-paragraph counter-affidavit supporting the prosecution’s stance, emphasizing specific points outlined in paragraphs 10 to 23. The prosecution further submitted a written argument refuting the defense’s claims and requested that the court dismiss Sowore’s application.
Judicial Decision and Adjournment
Justice Umar, after evaluating both sides, adjourned the case until June 30 for a judgment. Following the adjournment, Adakor requested Sowore’s immediate release, promising to secure his attendance at the next court date. Kehinde countered, asserting that such an oral application could not be validly made.
Details of Sowore’s Custody
Earlier, Justice Umar ordered Sowore, also known as the publisher of Sahara Reporters, to be remanded in the Kuje Correctional Center while awaiting the outcome of the motion filed by his attorney, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika. The judge dismissed Sowore’s previous request for him to recuse himself from the case, citing alleged bias.
On June 16, the court had announced the revocation of Sowore’s bail, a decision that culminated in the issuance of a bench warrant for his arrest following his failure to appear. The DSS has charged Sowore with making defamatory statements against President Bola Tinubu on social media platforms.
