Human rights advocate and founder of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, has refused to remove a social media post in which he described President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal,” despite pressure from Nigeria’s State Security Service (SSS).
On Sunday, Mr. Sowore revealed that X (formerly Twitter) had contacted him regarding a request from the SSS demanding the removal of his August 25 post. The tweet criticized President Tinubu for claiming there is no more corruption in Nigeria during a visit to Brazil.
“This morning, X informed me about a disturbing letter from the lawless DSS regarding my tweet on President Tinubu. I will not delete this tweet,” Sowore posted on Facebook.
According to the email shared with Sowore, the SSS accused him of violating Nigerian law and spreading false information capable of inciting violence, promoting hate speech, and disparaging the president. The social media platform, however, confirmed that it had not taken any action, citing its policy to protect freedom of expression.
The SSS had earlier issued a letter dated September 6, signed by B. Bamigboye on behalf of the Director-General, urging Elon Musk to ban Sowore’s account within 24 hours. They warned that failure to comply would lead Nigeria to take “comprehensive measures” against the platform.
Reacting to the demand, Sowore labeled the letter as “a disgrace to the nation” and “an attack on institutional integrity.” He added that taking the matter to an international platform like X highlights “how deeply Nigeria has fallen under the leadership of incompetent officials.”
Despite the pressure, Sowore emphasized that he would continue his activism regardless of his presence on social media. This incident represents the latest confrontation between the activist and Nigeria’s secret police.
With freedom of expression under scrutiny, the situation raises questions about the balance between governmental authority and individual rights on digital platforms. Sowore’s defiance signals his commitment to holding public officials accountable, even in the face of potential legal and political consequences.
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