DSS Orders Internal Investigation After Sowore’s Forceful Removal From Court Sparks Outrage

DSS orders internal investigation after Sowore’s forceful removal from court sparks outrage. The Department of State Services DSS has ordered an internal investigation following public outrage over the alleged forceful removal of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, from a Federal High Court in Abuja. The incident, which occurred during court proceedings, reportedly involved DSS operatives physically removing Sowore from the courtroom, an action that quickly triggered widespread criticism from lawyers, activists, and members of the publc In response to the backlash, the DSS confirmed that it has commenced an internal review to examine the conduct of its operatives involved in the courtroom incident. The agency said the investigation is aimed at determining whether standard operational procedures were followed and whether any misconduct occurred during the removal of the activist.While full details of the probe have not been made public, the DSS move is seen as an attempt to address growing concerns about professionalism and respect for judicial processes. The incident drew immediate attention after reports and videos circulated showing Sowore being forcefully escorted out of the courtroom by armed operatives. The development disrupted proceedings and sparked condemnation from observers who described the action as excessive and inappropriate within a judicial environment. Legal practitioners and civil society groups have since called for accountability, insisting that courtrooms must remain spaces where due process is respected and individuals are treated with dignity.

Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and convener of the RevolutionNow movement, has had multiple encounters with Nigerian security agencies over his activism and political engagements. He has been involved in several legal battles in recent years, often centered on allegations relating to protests, public statements, and national security concerns. Human rights groups and advocacy organisations have urged the DSS to ensure a transparent investigation and to prevent similar incidents in the future. They emphasized that respect for court procedures and constitutional rights is essential for strengthening public trust in law enforcement institutions. As of the time of filing this report, the DSS has not released detailed findings of the investigation. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.