Gen. Muhoozi Sparks Diplomatic Tension with Warning to South Africans in Uganda

  Lawless DSS, Prison Officers Allegedly Attempt to Block Sowore From Appearing in Another Court Sitting

June 30, 2026

A fresh controversy unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday after operatives of Nigeria's Department of State Services (DSS) and officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service were accused of preventing activist and former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, from attending another court proceeding scheduled for the same day.

According to reports, Sowore was appearing before Justice Mohammed Umar when he informed security officials that he was also expected in another courtroom for a separate legal matter. He reportedly explained that his presence was necessary to comply with court requirements and avoid any action that could jeopardize his bail status.

Sources familiar with the incident alleged that armed DSS operatives and correctional officers refused to allow him to leave the courtroom temporarily despite his explanation. The move has sparked criticism from supporters and legal observers, who argue that defendants should be allowed reasonable access to all court proceedings involving them.

Witnesses claimed that Sowore repeatedly informed the officials that his brief appearance before the second court was necessary to prevent his absence from being interpreted as a violation of court orders. Despite those explanations, the security personnel allegedly resisted his request.

Reports indicate that Sowore eventually succeeded in appearing before the second court before returning to Justice Umar's courtroom, where proceedings continued.

The latest development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Sowore's ongoing legal battles. In recent weeks, the activist has challenged the revocation of his bail in a cybercrime and criminal defamation case instituted by the DSS. The Federal High Court had fixed June 30 for a ruling on his application seeking the restoration of his bail and the setting aside of an earlier bench warrant.

The incident is expected to fuel renewed debate over the conduct of security agencies within court premises and the need to protect the rights of defendants during judicial proceedings. Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for security personnel to respect due process and avoid actions that could interfere with the administration of justice.

As of the time of publication, neither the DSS nor the Nigerian Correctional Service had publicly responded to the latest allegation regarding the reported attempt to prevent Sowore from attending the second court session.