The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the continuation of his trial on cybercrime charges.

Justice Mohammed Umar issued the order on Monday after dismissing Sowore’s application seeking the judge’s recusal from the case over alleged bias. The matter was adjourned until June 24, 2026, for further proceedings.

Sowore is facing a two-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), bordering on alleged cyberstalking and criminal defamation. The charges stem from social media posts made in August 2025 in which he described President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal.”

The Federal Government, relying on provisions of the Cybercrimes Act, 2024, alleges that the statements were knowingly false and intended to incite public disorder. Sowore has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The court had earlier ruled that the prosecution established a prima facie case against the activist and ordered him to open his defence. However, following his failure to appear at a scheduled hearing, Justice Umar revoked his bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

While the prosecution described his absence as a deliberate attempt to delay proceedings, Sowore maintained that he had previously informed the court of his travel plans and accused the court of disregarding his correspondence.

Following Monday’s proceedings, the court ordered that Sowore remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre until the resumption of trial later this week.