By Kamsi Anayo, Awka
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 Tinubu.
The DSS accused Sowore of referring to the President as a “criminal” in a post on Aug. 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.”
In a letter dated Sept. 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.
“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 letter stated.
The DSS also copied the United States Embassy in Abuja, notifying it of the development.
It added that 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,” it added, stressing that it would not hesitate to take lawful measures if Sowore failed to comply.
The DSS said 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.
