DSS sues Sowore X Meta over anti-Tinubu post
The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a lawsuit against activist Omoyele Sowore, social media platform X (formerly Twitter), and tech giant Meta, accusing them of publishing and amplifying posts deemed defamatory against President Bola Tinubu.
According to court filings, the DSS alleged that Sowore used his social media accounts to circulate what it described as “false and inciting” claims about the president. The agency further accused X and Meta of failing to moderate the content, allowing it to spread widely online.
The DSS is seeking legal orders compelling the platforms to take down the posts, provide user data, and enforce stricter compliance with Nigerian laws on online content.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, has consistently criticized Tinubu’s administration. In his initial reaction, he dismissed the case as an attempt to silence dissent and undermine free speech.
Digital rights advocates have also raised concerns, warning that the lawsuit could set a precedent for government overreach into online expression. They urged Nigerian courts to carefully balance national security claims with citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech.
Neither X nor Meta has publicly commented on the suit as of press time.
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