Police Officer Testifies on Social Media Monitoring of Sowore’s Posts

 

Police officer testifies in court about social media monitoring in Sowore case

A police officer spoke in court on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. An ASP said he was told by the Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, to track Sowore’s posts. This followed Sowore’s post urging IGP Kayode Egbetokun to step down. The post gained many shares and sparked anger online.


The officer said he began monitoring Sowore’s social media accounts. He was also told to watch for comments under Sowore’s posts. The ASP did not say if this tracking is still active. He mentioned that Sowore, a known political figure from the AAC, had a pattern of harsh criticism.


The court session was part of a cybercrime trial against Sowore. The case has deep roots in past disputes with the police and the court system. In a surprising moment, the judge brought up Sowore’s smart glasses. The judge claimed the glasses shone too bright and might hide a camera.


Sowore said the glasses are medicated and use AI to help him see better. He found the judge’s remark unfair and unneeded. His lawyer, Marshal Abubakar, later asked that the glasses be removed. The hearing stopped briefly and will resume on June 23, 2025.


The ASP’s testimony has raised questions about the police’s role in tracking citizens online. Many see this as a move against free speech. Law experts and citizen groups worry that such actions may lead to self-censorship. They say tracking social posts can stop people from speaking up.


Sowore has long claimed that the trial is meant to silence his voice. He has faced years of court challenges before. He said this case is part of a wider plan to stop dissent. Sowore recalled an earlier trial where charges were dropped without a clear reason. He also mentioned how past orders kept him in Abuja and stopped his travel.


Outside the court, Sowore spoke to the press. He said the case shows a link between the police, the courts, and other government arms. Many citizens have joined the debate on free speech and state power. Experts claim that using surveillance in this way may break trust. They urge better rules on digital monitoring.


Observers note that tracking online posts can have a chilling effect. They believe the case is a sign of bigger problems in Nigeria. The issue is now a talk of the town among activists and legal experts. The ASP’s statement and the court’s focus on tech use in hearings point to a shifting trend. Laws on cyber actions may soon change.


The hearing also brought up older issues. Sowore said his past struggles include a long trial and a passport seizure. He says the government has a history of keeping tabs on its critics. The public now watches closely as the case unfolds. More details will come when the court resumes on June 23, 2025.


This new evidence adds weight to calls for clearer rules on digital rights. Many hope that fresh laws will protect free speech while ensuring the safety of online users. The case has grabbed national attention, and opinions run deep.


Sowore’s story and the police actions fuel heated debate. Some back the move as a way to maintain order. Others see it as a threat to public expression. The matter now sits at the intersection of law, tech, and civil rights.


Citizens, legal minds, and tech experts await more court sessions. They look for fair treatment and clear answers. The case may soon set new paths for rules on online speech and government tracking.