Sahara Reporters founder and 2019 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) Omoyele Sowore has filed a fresh bail application to the Federal High Court, Abuja, asking to be released from detention.
Sowore was arrested at about 11 pm on Saturday, August 2 by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) for calling for a protest.
But Nigeria police said the planned protest was “threatening public safety, peaceful co-existence and social harmony in the country”.
The DSS accused him of terrorism and plotting to overthrow Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari’s government. He, however, denied the allegations.
After his arrest, the Federal High Court, Abuja granted the DSS the permission to detain Sowore for 45 days against the 90 days applied for.
Sowore’s lawyer Femi Falana first applied for his bail Wednesday, August 28 but was denied bail by Justice Nkeonye Maya.
His latest application, filed by Falana is seeking bail on self-recognisance with the condition being only a personal assurance of appearing for trial or “upon any condition the court may reasonably deem to impose in the circumstance of the case.”
Falana insisted that Sowore’s arrest was made without a warrant and argued that an individual that is detained under the anti-terrorism law can be admitted to bail.
Sowore’s lawyer opined that he is entitled to bail since he has cooperated with the DSS and the government agency has “concluded investigation of this case and announced its findings.”
Falana also stated that Sowore has not been charged with any criminal offence and is entitled to rights of fair hearing, the dignity of the human person, liberty, health and freedom of movement as guaranteed by law.
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