Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has challenged the Department of State Services (DSS) over its involvement in the prosecution of activist Omoyele Sowore.
Yesufu questioned why the security agency became involved in a case linked to comments allegedly made by Sowore about President Bola Tinubu.
She made the remarks while reacting to the DSS explanation regarding Sowore’s court case and remand.
DSS explains Sowore’s prosecution
The DSS had stated that it filed charges against Sowore under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Amendment) Act, 2024.
The agency said the case followed a social media post where Sowore allegedly referred to President Tinubu as “this criminal”.
The DSS maintained that Sowore’s remand followed court proceedings and said it did not arrest him or oppose his bail.
Activist questions legal approach
Reacting to the development, Yesufu argued that if President Tinubu believed the statement was false or defamatory, the matter could have been handled through legal action by the president himself.
She questioned the DSS’ role in pursuing the case.
Yesufu said the issue should not require the involvement of a security agency if it was based on a personal allegation.
Security concerns raised
The activist also criticised the agency’s focus on the case while Nigeria continues to face security challenges.
She argued that national attention should also be directed toward protecting lives and property across the country.
Meanwhile, the DSS said its action was aimed at seeking legal interpretation on whether Sowore’s social media comments amounted to cyberbullying or unlawful disparagement of the president.
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