The Department of State Services (DSS) has written to activist and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore over a social media post targeting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a September 7 letter signed by Uwem Davies, the DSS described Sowore’s August 26 post as “false and malicious.” The activist had ridiculed Tinubu’s comments on corruption in Brazil, calling the President a “criminal.”
According to the DSS, the tweet was “repugnant, derogatory, and capable of inciting public disturbance.” The service warned that Sowore’s remarks could damage Tinubu’s reputation both locally and internationally, raising the risk of unrest.
The letter instructed Sowore to delete the post and issue a public apology within one week. He must also retract the statement on X, publish apologies in two national newspapers, and appear on at least two television stations.
Additionally, the DSS asked him to email a formal representation to its Abuja headquarters. A copy of the letter was also sent to the US Embassy.
“Persons of your status who are campaigning to lead this country must exercise restraint and responsibility in their speech,” the DSS stated.
The service added that if Sowore failed to comply, it would take legal action. It emphasized that it would “explore all lawful means” to counter misinformation that could harm national unity.
