Confusion rocked the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday as two vacation judges—Justice S.M. Liman and Justice Emeka Nwite—entertained separate motions involving human rights activist and SaharaReporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore. The Nigeria Police Force worsened the situation by filing processes before both judges, creating overlapping hearings that left observers stunned.
In Court 3, Sowore appeared before Justice Liman over an application seeking the release of his passport. But the judge refused to hear the matter, saying it was not “weighty enough” for vacation proceedings. He also barred Sowore from entering the dock, insisting the application was ex parte. The case was adjourned until September 4, with instructions to file a fresh motion.
At the same time, in another courtroom, Justice Nwite granted the police an ex parte application for substituted service of a criminal summons against SaharaReporters. He clarified that the approval was only for service through newspaper publication, not for the trial itself.
The split proceedings have raised eyebrows, especially given the police’s multiple charges against Sowore. Earlier, he was accused of cybercrime for calling Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun an “Illegal IGP.” Despite securing bail of ₦10 million, his passport remains withheld, blocking him from traveling abroad for medical care and family visits.
Fresh charges also surfaced this August, including defamation and alleged incitement of police mutiny. These relate to SaharaReporters’ reports exposing a police promotion scandal, as well as protests Sowore joined with retired officers demanding reforms in the pension system.
Critics say the conflicting hearings show a coordinated effort to frustrate Sowore while keeping his legal troubles alive on multiple fronts. For now, the activist remains caught between judges, police pressure, and a court process many Nigerians see as unusual and politically charged.
