Heavy security was deployed to the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday as the trial of activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore resumed.
Armed operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) were stationed around the court premises, while journalists covering the proceedings said they were prevented from accessing the courtroom.
According to reporters at the scene, Sowore, who is facing charges over comments allegedly describing President Bola Tinubu as “a criminal,” was brought to the court premises early in the morning ahead of the hearing.
Journalists said security officials initially informed them they would be allowed into the court premises by 9:00 a.m. However, they claimed they were still denied access to the courtroom as proceedings approached.
The heavy security presence has raised concerns among media practitioners over access to court proceedings involving a high-profile government critic.
Sowore is being prosecuted by the DSS over remarks allegedly made about President Tinubu. Justice Mohammed Umar had earlier ordered his remand pending the hearing of his bail application.
The trial continues to attract public attention, with civil society organisations and human rights advocates closely monitoring the case.
