A Federal High Court in Abuja has declined an application by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, seeking a prolonged adjournment in his alleged cyberbullying trial, directing him to proceed with his defence on July 16.
Justice Mohammed Umar turned down the request after counsel to the defendant informed the court that the lead defence lawyer was out of the country and urged the court to postpone proceedings until after its annual vacation.
Counsel for the Department of State Services (DSS) opposed the application, arguing that the matter had suffered several delays at the instance of the defendant.
The prosecution also reminded the court of its earlier order for an accelerated hearing in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
In his ruling, Justice Umar held that granting another lengthy adjournment would defeat the court’s directive for a speedy trial.
He subsequently adjourned the matter to July 16 for the continuation of the defence.
Earlier during the proceedings, defence witness and human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, testified that President Bola Tinubu had publicly affirmed the right of Nigerians to criticise and even insult him as part of democratic freedoms.
Video recordings of the President’s remarks were tendered and played before the court.
However, under cross-examination, Adeyanju admitted that although the President encouraged freedom of expression, he never suggested that individuals who violate the law should be shielded from prosecution.
Sowore is being prosecuted over allegations of cyberbullying President Bola Tinubu in a case instituted by the Department of State Services.
The activist has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and continues to contest the allegations before the court.
