The Sowore bail ruling has been delayed after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the continued detention of Omoyele Sowore at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending a decision on his application for bail.
Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), appeared before Justice Mohammed Umar on Tuesday as his legal team sought to have his bail restored.
The activist is facing charges linked to social media posts in which he allegedly made false claims against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He has denied all allegations against him.
According to Daily Post, the court heard arguments from both the defence and the prosecution before reserving its decision on the application.
The prosecution opposed the request and urged the court to maintain its earlier order, while Sowore’s lawyers argued that he should be granted bail while the case continues.
The latest development follows the revocation of Sowore’s bail earlier this month. Justice Umar had withdrawn the bail after the activist failed to appear in court on a scheduled date.
The court subsequently issued a bench warrant for his arrest and ordered that he be remanded in Kuje prison.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, the defence asked the court to set aside the earlier order and restore Sowore’s freedom. Counsel to the activist maintained that there were valid reasons for his absence and urged the court to consider the circumstances surrounding the matter.
The prosecution, however, insisted that the court should not reverse its decision. It argued that the defendant failed to comply with the conditions attached to his earlier release and should remain in custody pending further proceedings.
After listening to both sides, Justice Umar declined to give an immediate decision. Instead, he adjourned the matter until June 30, when the court is expected to deliver the Sowore bail ruling.
The case has attracted public attention in recent weeks, especially after Sowore requested that the judge withdraw from the matter. The court dismissed that request and ruled that the reasons presented did not justify a recusal.
With the matter now adjourned, Sowore will remain at the Kuje Correctional Centre until the court delivers its decision.
See also: Court Remands Sowore in Kuje Over Defamation Case
The upcoming Sowore bail ruling is expected to determine whether the activist regains his freedom.
while the trial continues or remains in custody pending the outcome of the case.
