Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a stern ultimatum to opposition figure and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore, demanding he retract social media comments labelling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal.”
The security agency’s directive, contained in a letter dated September 7, 2025, and signed by Uwem Davies on behalf of the DSS Director-General, characterised Sowore’s statements as “false, malicious and capable of inciting public disturbance, disunity and a breakdown of law and order.”
The Controversial Post
The controversy stems from Sowore’s August 26, 2025, post on X (formerly Twitter), where he wrote: “This criminal actually went to Brazil to state that there is NO MORE corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”
The DSS letter condemned the language as “odious, repugnant, derogatory and uncomplimentary towards a person occupying the highest office of this country,” warning that such statements could potentially cause insurrection.
Security Agency’s Demands
The DSS has given Sowore specific requirements to comply with:
- Issue an immediate retraction of the social media post with equal prominence
- Publish public apologies in at least two national newspapers and two television stations with nationwide coverage
- Submit his representation within one week to DSS headquarters in Abuja or via official email
The security service argued that Sowore’s remarks damaged President Tinubu’s reputation both domestically and internationally, claiming the posts had angered citizens, particularly presidential supporters who were becoming “restive.”
Warning of Legal Consequences
In its letter, the DSS emphasized its mandate to prevent the spread of “false propaganda” among Nigerians, warning it would “explore all lawful means” to achieve this objective.
“Consequently, if you fail to correct this false narrative, the Service shall, without further recourse to you, initiate measures it deems most appropriate within the ambit of the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the letter stated.
The agency also stressed that individuals seeking leadership positions should maintain “high integrity” and exercise “restraint and responsibility” in their public communications.
International Attention
Notably, the DSS copied the United States Embassy in Abuja on its correspondence to Sowore, indicating the diplomatic sensitivity surrounding the matter.
The letter concluded with an appeal for political figures to tailor their comments toward “promoting peace, security and good governance in the country.”
This development represents the latest tension between the current administration and opposition voices critical of government policies and leadership.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
