Court adjourns ruling on Sowore’s application for bail restoration to June 30

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has adjourned ruling on an application seeking the restoration of bail for African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, to June 30 in a case arising from comments linked to President Bola Tinubu.

The matter, filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), is being presided over by Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja on Wednesday.

During proceedings, Sowore’s counsel, R.O. Adakole, who appeared on behalf of lead counsel Olumide Fusika, appealed to the court to exercise its discretion by temporarily releasing Sowore to his legal team pending the court’s ruling on the application for restoration of bail.

Adakole argued that the request was necessary while the court considers the matter before it and urged the judge to grant the relief sought.

However, Justice Umar declined the request, stating that he needed to first study and review the affidavits and other processes filed before the court before taking a decision on the application.

Despite the plea by Sowore’s legal team, the court refused the request and fixed June 30 for ruling.

The development comes amid controversy surrounding the revocation of Sowore’s bail by the court.

Members of Sowore’s camp have questioned the decision, arguing that the activist had consistently appeared in court and had not previously failed to attend proceedings.

According to accounts from Sowore’s supporters and legal team, following an earlier court session in which Justice Umar reportedly did not sit, Sowore subsequently wrote to the judge seeking clarification and updates regarding the next hearing date.

Those close to the activist have raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding subsequent proceedings and the revocation of his bail, although the court has maintained its position on the matter.

The proceedings have also drawn attention to previous courtroom incidents involving Justice Umar.

Human rights lawyer Marshal Abubakar had earlier reportedly been directed by the judge to kneel during proceedings while conducting a cross-examination involving a DSS official, an incident that generated reactions among lawyers and rights advocates.

The case continues to attract attention from legal observers and civil rights groups amid wider concerns over freedom of expression, judicial conduct and the rights of defendants in politically sensitive matters.