The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, ₦200 million bail with two sureties in like sum.
The court ordered Sowore to submit his international passport as part of the bail conditions.
One surety must be a traditional ruler from his home community, while the second must own verified landed property in Abuja.
The ruling followed a tense morning at the court premises as the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Correctional Service deployed armed security operatives ahead of the hearing.
Sowore faces charges from the secret police over comments where he allegedly referred to President Bola Tinubu as a criminal.
Justice Mohammed Umar had earlier ordered his remand, and he remained in custody from June 22, 2026, until the bail ruling.
The security restrictions at the court drew criticism as journalists struggled to enter the courtroom before the session started.
Armed personnel blocked the entrance and kept some media workers waiting in the foyer.
Some journalists reported that security officers prevented them from covering the proceedings despite earlier assurances that they would gain access.
Sources
Federal High Court of Nigeria
Nigerian Correctional Service
Department of State Services
