DSS Bars Lawyers, Supporters As Omoyele Sowore Appears In Court

Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on Wednesday made an appearance before the Federal High Court in Abuja under tight security arrangements.

According to Ireporter Online, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) were seen restricting access to the courtroom, allegedly preventing several lawyers, supporters, and associates of the activist from entering the premises.

The AAC National Secretary, Oshiok Philip, was among those reportedly denied entry. He was said to have confronted the security operatives, insisting that the courtroom is a public space and accusing them of violating constitutional provisions by restricting public access to judicial proceedings.

Philip further urged the security agency to avoid being used as a tool against dissenting voices in the country.

Eyewitness accounts suggested that DSS operatives maintained a heavy presence around the courtroom, limiting movement and allegedly intimidating supporters of the activist who had gathered at the venue.

The development comes just two days after Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore’s remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

Earlier reports indicate that following Monday’s court ruling, armed DSS operatives allegedly stormed the courtroom and forcefully took Sowore away while he awaited transfer by correctional officials, an action that triggered widespread criticism.

Supporters and members of the AAC have since condemned the conduct of the DSS, describing it as unlawful and a breach of due process.