Human rights activist and a presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Omoyele Sowore has challenged the Cybercrime charges preferred against him using Reno Omokri’s past videos calling President Tinubu a “drug lord ” , a scenario that has positioned the DSS to faces tough questions in the Abuja court drama.
Court Drama: Omokri Videos Submitted as Evidence
In a high-profile courtroom development at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the Department of State Services (DSS) found itself on the defensive after Omoyele Sowore, founder of Sahara Reporters, submitted videos of former presidential aide Reno Omokri labeling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “drug lord.”
Sowore’s legal team argues the videos reveal inconsistencies in the application of Nigeria’s Cybercrime laws, questioning why Omokri faced no legal action despite making similar statements.
Videos Highlight Past Remarks
On January 27, 2026, Sowore’s lawyer, Marshal Abubakar, played multiple video clips from the 2023 election period. Omokri can be seen asserting that Tinubu was a “drug lord” and claiming he had evidence to support this claim.
Justice Mohammed Umar admitted the clips as exhibits under the Nigeria Evidence Act after the DSS objected, citing the admissibility of electronic evidence.
DSS Testimony Raises Eyebrows
During cross-examination, DSS witness Cyril Nosike struggled to explain why Omokri faced no consequences for his statements while Sowore is being prosecuted. The witness admitted the agency had not confirmed whether President Tinubu was even aware of Sowore’s posts.
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This line of questioning has intensified debate over selective enforcement of cybercrime regulations in Nigeria.
The Charges Against Sowore
Sowore faces a two-count amended charge under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024 for posts made on August 25, 2025, in which he accused President Tinubu of criminal conduct.
The prosecution claims Sowore intended to cause public disorder and spread false information, charges he denies, pleading not guilty.
Reno Omokri Explains and Withdraws Past Statements
Amid the trial, Omokri clarified on January 28, 2026, that his previous statements labeling Tinubu a “drug lord” were based on what he believed to be accurate at the time.
He publicly withdrew the statements in writing and video format, emphasizing that the president has no criminal record or conviction.
Personal Apology to President Tinubu
Omokri revealed that he personally visited President Tinubu on October 1, 2024, prostrated, and apologized for his prior remarks. He stated this was done after recognizing that he had been misled by media reports.
Omokri also highlighted his acceptance of Tinubu’s presidency after the Supreme Court ruling on October 26, 2023, which dismissed all election petitions.
Legal Implications for Sowore’s Case
Omokri’s clarification raises important legal questions about the admissibility of retracted statements. He stressed that the withdrawn remarks cannot serve as proof of Sowore’s claims and is willing to testify under oath if needed.
Trial Adjourned
The trial has been adjourned to February 4, 2026, for further cross-examination of the DSS witness and continuation of proceedings.
Observers say the case could have far-reaching implications for how online speech and political commentary are treated under Nigeria’s Cybercrime laws.
