Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday for a hearing in his ongoing legal case related to a viral video that exposed alleged police extortion. Sowore, who is known for his strong criticism of the government and as the convener of the #RevolutionNow Movement, has been embroiled in a legal dispute since releasing the video showing police officers allegedly extorting motorists on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Access Road in Lagos.

The video led to Sowore’s invitation by the Nigeria Police Force, and after his appearance at the police station, he was detained at the Nigerian Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) office in Abuja. He refused to comply with bail conditions that required him to produce a level 16 civil servant as surety and surrender his passport. Initially charged with several offenses, including resisting public officers, disobeying lawful orders, and cyberstalking, Sowore now faces a revised charge of cyberbullying and endangering police officers, with the case being heard before Justice M.S. Liman of the Federal High Court. Additionally, he is accused of repeatedly referring to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as the “illegal IG.”

Although Sowore was granted bail, his passport remains withheld. On Thursday, the pro-democracy group Take It Back (TIB) Movement demanded the immediate release of his passport, accusing the government of using legal processes to curtail his freedom. The group called for an end to what they see as the unjust persecution of Sowore by the government.

Despite these legal challenges, Sowore continues to use social media and other platforms to criticize the government and advocate for justice and free speech in Nigeria. His court appearance is expected to draw considerable public attention as the case progresses.