DSS Blocks Lawyers, Supporters As Sowore Appears In Court

Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday amid a heavy security presence.

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly blocked some lawyers, supporters and associates of the activist from entering the courtroom.

Among those allegedly denied access was the National Secretary of the AAC, Oshiok Philip, who challenged the operatives over the restriction.

Philip reportedly told the DSS officials that the courtroom was a public space and accused them of acting against constitutional provisions by preventing people from witnessing the proceedings.

He also urged the agency not to allow itself to be used against dissenting voices.

The operatives were said to have mounted security around the courtroom, restricted movement and intimidated some of Sowore’s supporters.

The development came two days after Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore’s remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

Naija News had earlier reported that after Monday’s ruling, armed DSS operatives allegedly stormed the courtroom and forcefully took Sowore away while he was awaiting transfer by correctional officials.

The incident sparked outrage among his supporters and members of the AAC, who described the DSS’s conduct as lawless and an attack on due process.