Dare Babalola
The Department of State Services (DSS) has invited publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, over what it described as a “false and malicious” social media post against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a letter dated September 7, 2025, signed by Uwem Davies on behalf of the DSS Director-General, Sowore was directed to retract the statement and issue a public apology within seven days.
The DSS cited a post from August 26, 2025, where Sowore allegedly called Tinubu a “criminal” while mocking the President’s remarks on corruption during a trip to Brazil.
The agency described the comment as “repugnant, derogatory, and capable of inciting public disturbance”, arguing it could undermine the President’s reputation domestically and internationally, potentially leading to disunity or a breakdown of law and order.
According to the letter, Sowore must issue an unequivocal retraction on the same platform, publish apologies in at least two national dailies and two television stations, and send a representation to the DSS headquarters in Abuja or via email.
The agency also copied the United States Embassy in Abuja, notifying it of the development.
The letter instructed Sowore to retract the post on X, publish apologies in two national newspapers and two television stations, and send a formal representation to DSS headquarters in Abuja or via email.
“Persons of your status who are campaigning to lead this country must exercise restraint and responsibility in their speech”, the DSS warned, emphasising its mandate to counter misinformation that threatens national unity.
The agency stated it would pursue “all lawful measures” if Sowore fails to comply, signaling potential legal action to address what it views as dangerous propaganda.
