DSS Summons Sowore Over ‘False and Malicious’ Post Against Tinubu

DSS Summons Sowore Over ‘False and Malicious’ Post Against Tinubu.
He must retract, apologise publicly, or face possible legal action.
US Embassy in Abuja was notified of the development.

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 Ahmed Tinubu.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a letter dated September 7, 2025, and signed by Uwem Davies on behalf of the Director-General of the Service, Sowore was ordered to retract his statement made on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) and issue a public apology within one week.

The DSS accused Sowore of referring to President Tinubu as a “criminal” in an August 26, 2025 post, in which he mocked the president’s comments on corruption during a visit to Brazil. The agency said the remark was “repugnant, derogatory and capable of inciting public disturbance.”

It further warned that such comments could undermine the president’s image both domestically and internationally, with the potential to “trigger disunity, insurrection or a breakdown of law and order.”

The DSS directed Sowore to post an unequivocal retraction on 𝕏, publish apologies in at least two national newspapers and two television stations, and send a representation to its headquarters in Abuja or via email.

The Service also copied the United States Embassy in Abuja, notifying it of the action taken against Sowore.

“Persons of your status who are campaigning to lead this country must exercise restraint and responsibility in their speech,” the DSS cautioned, stressing it would not hesitate to take lawful action if Sowore failed to comply.

The agency reiterated that its mandate includes protecting Nigerians against false propaganda and emphasized that it would “explore all lawful means” to counter misinformation that could undermine national unity.

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