The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted human rights activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore bail in the sum of ₦200 million following his bail hearing, while tension flared outside the court as protesters demanding his release clashed with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The bail ruling came after legal arguments were presented before the court, with supporters of the activist gathering at the court premises to call for his freedom. The demonstration drew a significant security presence as DSS operatives and other law enforcement personnel were deployed to maintain order during the proceedings.
According to the court's ruling, Sowore is required to meet several conditions before his release. The court ordered him to deposit his international passport and provide two sureties.
One of the sureties must be a traditional ruler from Sowore's community, while the second must be an individual who owns landed property within Abuja. The court also directed that the sureties must satisfy additional verification requirements before the bail conditions can be perfected.
Outside the courtroom, dozens of supporters chanted solidarity songs and carried placards demanding the activist's immediate release. The atmosphere became tense when protesters reportedly attempted to move closer to the courthouse, resulting in a confrontation with DSS operatives stationed around the premises.
Although the situation briefly escalated, security personnel eventually restored calm, allowing court activities to continue. There were no immediate official reports of serious injuries or arrests arising from the confrontation.
The heavy deployment of security operatives reflected the heightened public interest surrounding the case, which has attracted widespread attention from civil society groups, political observers, and human rights advocates.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate and prominent activist, has long been known for his involvement in campaigns advocating for government accountability, democratic reforms, and anti-corruption initiatives. His legal battles have frequently generated national debate over civil liberties, freedom of expression, and the role of security agencies in Nigeria's democratic system.
Legal analysts say the stringent bail conditions imposed by the court demonstrate an attempt to balance the defendant's constitutional right to bail with assurances that he will appear for future court proceedings.
Supporters have welcomed the bail ruling but urged authorities to ensure that the conditions do not unnecessarily delay his release. They also called for the judicial process to remain transparent and impartial as the case progresses.
The case is expected to return to court on a later date for the continuation of proceedings, with public attention likely to remain focused on developments involving one of Nigeria's most prominent political activists.
As legal processes continue, observers say the outcome of the case could have broader implications for discussions around civil rights, public protests, and the administration of justice in Nigeria.