DSS Instructs X To Take Down Sowore’s Tweet

FG says Sowore’s tweet could incite unrest and violates several Nigerian laws.
DSS gives X Corp. 24 hours to remove the post or face possible sanctions.
Authorities claim the post threatens national security and public peace.

The Federal Government has formally asked social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to take down a recent post by activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, over claims that it poses a threat to national security and violates Nigerian laws.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the request came through a letter issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), addressed to the Chairman and CEO of X Corp. and signed by DSS Director-General B. Bamigboye. The letter, which surfaced on the platform Saturday, referred to a post made by Sowore on 25th August 2025 at 11:38 PM WAT through his verified handle @YeleSowore.

EDITOR’S PICKS

In the controversial post, Sowore took aim at following comments allegedly made during an official visit to Brazil.

The DSS said the statement was not only false but inflammatory, accusing Sowore of using social media to “mislead the public, harass public officials online and incite hatred.”

The agency claimed the post triggered unrest among the president’s supporters and could lead to larger public disorder.

Citing Section 51 of the Criminal Code Act Cap. 77, as well as parts of the Cyber Crimes Act 2025 particularly Sections 19, 22, and 24 the DSS argued that Sowore’s post breaks multiple laws.

The DSS also referenced the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, suggesting the statement could qualify as a form of domestic terrorism, and warned that both Sowore and X Corp. could be held legally responsible.

The agency gave the platform 24 hours to delete the post and all related retweets, stating that failure to act may lead to “wide-reaching and decisive measures” by the Nigerian government.

The incident underscores the persistent friction between Nigerian authorities and outspoken critics on social media, as debates around the limits of free speech and government accountability continue to grow.

FURTHER READING