A Federal High Court in Abuja has warned human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore that it may close his defence in the ongoing alleged cybercrime trial if further delays occur in the proceedings. The warning followed the absence of his legal team at Thursday’s hearing, prompting another request for an adjournment.
Justice Muhammed Umar noted that while Sowore was present in court, none of his lawyers appeared to continue his defence. Explaining the situation, Sowore informed the court that his lead counsel, Olumide Fusika (SAN), was in the United Kingdom with the court’s knowledge, while the lawyer expected to stand in for him, Raphael Adakole, was outside the country. He consequently sought an adjournment to enable his legal team to continue the case.
The prosecution opposed the application, arguing that the defence had repeatedly delayed the trial. Prosecuting counsel Akinlolu Kehinde told the court that the latest request represented the 11th adjournment sought by the defence, contrary to the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), and urged the court to foreclose Sowore’s defence.
In his ruling, Justice Umar acknowledged that the defendant must be given a fair opportunity to present his case but cautioned that the court would no longer tolerate unnecessary delays.
“In the interest of justice, the court will, for the last time, grant an adjournment for the defendant to continue his defence or risk having his defence foreclosed.”
The judge subsequently adjourned the matter until July 22, 2026, for the continuation of the defence, warning that any further delay could result in the court closing Sowore’s case.
