Sowore to be arraigned over alleged social media incitement against Police IG

The Police Headquarters in Abuja has filed legal action against activist Omoyele Sowore for comments on social media attributed to him, accusing him of attempting to “cause a breakdown of law and order.”

One such comment, posted on social media, claimed: “The illegal IG of Nigeria Police Force, Kayode Egbetokun, will make the next #ENDSARS inevitable!”

Sowore faces three charges under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015, amended in 2024. The charges were filed in a suit marked FCH/ABJ/23/25.

According to the police, Sowore intentionally sent messages via his verified Twitter account, referring to Egbetokun as the “illegal IGP Kayode Egbetokun,” which they claim were false and aimed at causing unrest.

The charge sheet includes:

Count One: On December 13, 2024, Sowore sent a message through his verified X account, calling Egbetokun “illegal IGP Kayode Egbetokun,” knowing it was false and intending to cause law and order breakdown.

Count Two: Sowore allegedly made threats inciting Nigerians against the Nigeria Police Force and intending to damage the IG’s reputation or property.

Count Three: On December 20, 2024, Sowore stated: “The illegal IG of Nigeria Police Force, Kayode Egbetokun, will make the next #ENDSARS inevitable! He is working tirelessly towards it. Just a matter of time. #EgbetekunMustGo #Revolution.”

The police argue that Sowore’s comments were meant to incite unrest and undermine police authority.

Sowore is scheduled for arraignment before Justice Liman of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, with his defense team led by Marshall Abubakar.

Sowore was arrested on Monday after rejecting bail conditions set by the police following allegations of obstructing public officers and cyberstalking.