The Department of State Services (DSS) is set to arraign politician and publisher Omoyele Sowore, alongside tech giants X Inc. (formerly Twitter) and Meta (Facebook) Inc., on Tuesday before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Background of the Case
The case stems from allegations that Sowore made a false claim describing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a criminal, a statement the DSS says was widely circulated through social media platforms operated by X and Meta.
According to the prosecution, the posts not only constituted a defamation of character but also posed a potential threat to public order, given the sensitivity of political discourse in the country.
Defendants and Charges
- Omoyele Sowore: Charged with making and disseminating false information with intent to incite public unrest.
- X Inc.: Accused of failing to moderate and remove harmful content alleged to defame the President.
- Meta Inc.: Accused of allowing the spread of the claim across its platforms, including Facebook.
What to Expect in Court
Legal experts say the arraignment could set a major precedent in Nigeria’s regulation of social media and online speech, especially as it involves holding international tech companies accountable alongside an individual.
The case is expected to spark heated debate between advocates of free speech and those supporting stronger measures against misinformation and defamation.
Broader Implications
This trial comes at a time when the Nigerian government has been increasingly vocal about tightening controls on digital platforms, following concerns over misinformation, cybercrime, and political propaganda.
If convicted, Sowore could face prison time, while X and Meta may be subjected to fines or stricter operational regulations in Nigeria.
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