UT reporter
The Department of State Services (DSS) has summoned activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, over what it described as a “false and malicious” social media post against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
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In a letter dated September 7, 2025 by Uwem Davies on behalf of the Director-General of the Service, Sowore was asked to retract his comment on X (formerly Twitter) and tender a public apology within one week.
The DSS accused Sowore of referring to the President as a “criminal” in a post on August 26, 2025, where he allegedly mocked Tinubu’s statement in Brazil on corruption. The Service said the post was “repugnant, derogatory and capable of inciting public disturbance.”
According to the letter, Sowore must issue an unequivocal retraction on the same platform, publish apologies in at least two national dailies and two television stations, and send a representation to the DSS headquarters in Abuja or via email.
The agency also copied the United States Embassy in Abuja, notifying it of the development.
The DSS said Sowore’s comments had the potential to lower the President’s standing before Nigerians and the international community, warning that they could trigger disunity, insurrection, or a breakdown of law and order.
“Persons of your status who are campaigning to lead this country must exercise restraint and responsibility in their speech,” the Service stressed, adding that it would not hesitate to take lawful measures if Sowore failed to comply.
The Service maintained that its mandate includes ensuring Nigerians are not deceived by false propaganda, noting it would “explore all lawful means” to counter misinformation capable of undermining national unity.