The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the release of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore’s passport, following the discontinuation of his trial for alleged treason by the Federal Government.
Justice Emeka Nwite ruled in favor of Sowore, striking out the charges and ordering the return of seized items, including his passport, seized since 2019.
However, the Department of State Services (DSS) has defied the court’s order by refusing to release Sowore’s phones seized during his arrest and failing to pay the N3 million in damages awarded by the court.
Background
Sowore’s ordeal began in August 2019 when he and his co-defendant, Olawale Bakare, were arrested by the DSS for planning a protest under the hashtag #RevolutionNow.
Accused of treason and attempting to overthrow former President Muhammadu Buhari, Sowore endured a lengthy trial marred by controversies, including the freezing of his bank account by Guaranty Trust Bank, allegedly under a court order obtained by the DSS.
Despite the discontinuation of the trial, the DSS continues to withhold Sowore’s phones and has neglected to comply with the court’s directive to pay damages.
Court’s Decision
Justice Nwite’s ruling mandated the release of all seized items belonging to Sowore and Bakare. However, the DSS’s refusal to adhere to the court’s order underscores a continued disregard for judicial directives.
Sowore’s legal team has announced intentions to pursue legal action against Guaranty Trust Bank for its role in violating his rights.
Sowore himself has vowed to seek N100 billion in compensation from the government and the DSS for the trauma endured during his detention and trial, in addition to the court-awarded damages.
