The Federal Government of Nigeria has withdrawn the charge it filed against rights activists, Omoyele Sowore and Adebayo Olawale. This followed a notice of discontinuance filed at the Federal High Court Abuja, where Sowore and his co-defendant are being arraigned.
The Notice of Discontinuance, dated February 15, 2023, was signed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN.
“By virtue of the power conferred on me under Section 174 (1) (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, Section 107 (1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 and all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice tend to discontinue Charge No: FHC/ABJ/CR/235/2019, between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Omoyele Sowore, Adebayo Olawale aka Mandate.
Reacting on the matter, an Abuja-based legal practitioner, Pelumi Olajengbesi Esq, commended the decision of the AGF to halt the trial of Omoyele Sowore in court, where he was charged for allegedly staging a revolution.
Olajengbesi said the decision reflects a commitment to upholding the principles of justice and fairness within the country’s legal system.
“By discontinuing the trial, the Attorney General has demonstrated a willingness to review cases objectively and prioritise the protection of citizens’ rights.”
“As advocates for justice and equality, I stand in support of such principled actions and urge continued adherence to the principles of fairness and accountability within our legal system” Olajengbesi stated.