Video Evidence Rocks Sowore Trial as Nigerian Court Considers ‘Drug Lord’ Claim Against President Tinubu

In a high-profile courtroom showdown, a Nigerian Federal Court on Tuesday admitted video evidence in the ongoing trial of activist and Former Presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, intensifying debates over free speech, digital defamation, and political accountability in Africa’s largest democracy.

During proceedings before Justice Mohammed Umar, the defence presented footage of Nigerian commentator and former Presidential aide Reno Omokri publicly calling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a “drug lord.” The judge ruled the video admissible under Nigeria’s Evidence Act, despite objections from prosecutors claiming the material was improperly tendered.

Sowore faces cyberstalking and defamatory conduct charges under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, stemming from social media posts in August 2025 that described President Tinubu as a “criminal.” The Federal Government alleges the posts were false and could incite public disorder. Sowore has pleaded not guilty to the two-count amended indictment.

In court, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative admitted the agency did not obtain any official statement from the President regarding Sowore’s posts and could not explain why Omokri, despite his public remarks, was later cleared for an ambassadorial nomination by security authorities.

Legal experts and observers say the trial is drawing International attention as a test case for balancing freedom of expression with political accountability in African democracies. Critics argue the proceedings highlight potential overreach in the enforcement of cybercrime laws against political dissent.

The court adjourned the case until February 4 for further cross-examination. The ruling on the admissibility of the video sets the stage for what many see as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s evolving discourse on digital expression, defamation, and state power.