Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has applied to the court for the issuance of subpoenas compelling Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to testify in his ongoing cybercrime trial.
At the resumed hearing, Sowore’s legal team argued that the testimonies of the two officials are necessary to ensure a fair determination of the case. The defence maintained that their evidence could help clarify issues relating to the allegations brought against the activist.
According to the application, the defence is asking the court to compel the witnesses to appear and provide testimony regarding matters it considers relevant to the charges filed against Sowore.
The prosecution opposed the application, urging the court to dismiss the request on grounds that the proposed witnesses were not essential to proving or defending the charges before the court.
After hearing arguments from both parties, the trial judge adjourned proceedings to consider the application and rule on whether the subpoenas should be issued.
Sowore is facing charges under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, allegations he has consistently denied. The activist has maintained that the charges are politically motivated and has vowed to defend himself through the judicial process.
The case has continued to attract significant public attention, with civil society organisations and legal observers closely monitoring developments because of its implications for freedom of expression, due process, and the application of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.
The court is expected to deliver its ruling on the subpoena application at the next adjourned date before the substantive trial continues.
