DSS Gives Sowore One-Week Ultimatum Over Post on President Tinubu

The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a one-week ultimatum to activist and politician Omoyele Sowore, demanding that he retract what it described as a disparaging post against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his verified X handle.

In a letter dated September 7, 2025 and signed by Uwem Davis on behalf of the Director General, the DSS directed Sowore to withdraw the statement, publish a retraction on the same platform and tender a public apology to both President Tinubu and the Nigerian people through at least two national newspapers and two television stations.

The correspondence, titled “Demand for Retraction of Criminal, False and Malicious Post Publication” was sent to Sowore’s U.S. address in Englewood, New Jersey, as well as his social media contacts. The DSS accused Sowore of making false and malicious claims in a post dated August 26, 2025, 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!”

According to the DSS, the remarks were not only derogatory and uncomplimentary but also capable of inciting unrest, disunity and a breakdown of law and order. The agency further warned that such statements undermine the dignity of the President before Nigerians and the international community.

The Service outlined conditions for compliance, stressing that the apology must carry equal prominence to the original post. It also instructed Sowore to submit proof of compliance to its headquarters in Abuja or via official email addresses.

The letter emphasized that individuals seeking leadership roles must demonstrate integrity and responsibility in their speech, adding that the DSS “shall explore all lawful means” to counter false propaganda if Sowore fails to comply.

The communication was also copied to the United States Embassy in Abuja for record purposes.