Sowore Challenges Court’s Integrity Amid Passport Controversy

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Civil rights activist and SaharaReporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, has openly criticized Justice Musa Suleiman Liman of the Federal High Court in Abuja, asserting that he is unafraid of being jailed. This follows the judge’s threat of contempt of court, which Sowore perceives as an attempt to silence him and his legal team.

Sowore condemned the ongoing trial, labeling it as frivolous and abusive, and accused the “illegal” Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, of filing politically motivated cybercrime charges against him.

During a heated hearing on Monday, tensions escalated as Justice Liman questioned Sowore’s request to have his passport released to visit his family in the United States. The judge scrutinized the documents presented, expressing doubts about their authenticity and the absence of his family’s names in the motion.

Despite previously indicating a willingness to grant Sowore permission to travel, Justice Liman’s stance shifted, leading to threats of imprisonment for Sowore’s courtroom remarks. The judge’s actions appeared to align with the prosecution’s weak opposition, prompting Sowore to criticize the court’s integrity.

Sowore reaffirmed his commitment to his Nigerian citizenship and readiness to face jail if the court continued to obstruct his request. He emphasized that he would not flee the country over what he called “farcical charges.”

The altercation intensified when Justice Liman insisted on detailed documentation, including a comprehensive medical history and a letter from Sowore’s U.S. doctor. Sowore’s lead attorney, Abubakar Marshal, argued that such requirements were unnecessary, as Sowore was not seeking medical treatment but a routine check-up.

The judge’s persistent questioning of the evidence and documents presented led to further frustration for Sowore, who accused the court of grandstanding rather than delivering justice. The hearing was adjourned to Tuesday, March 4, 2025, for a ruling on the passport request.

Sowore’s legal team emphasized his right to see his family and highlighted his history of facing politically motivated charges without fleeing the country. The Take It Back Movement has announced a protest within the court premises, demanding the release of Sowore’s passport.

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