A social media broadcaster is in DSS custody after allegedly calling for a military coup against President Bola Tinubu online.
Justice Akintoye Aluko of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Monday remanded Paul Jibrin Oweleke after the Directorate of State Services DSS arraigned him on two counts of cybercrime offences.
–The charges: What DSS alleges–
Count 1: On May 23, 2025, Oweleke allegedly “knowingly or intentionally sent messages and broadcasts through his social media handle ‘Oweleke TV’ that were subversive by inciting the Nigerian populace and calling for a military coup to remove President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) as president… to replicate what is happening in Burkina Faso through an unconstitutional means for purpose of causing disaffection and breakdown of law and order.”
Count 2: He allegedly “knowingly or intentionally transmitted… through ‘OWELEKE TV’ to bully, threaten or harass the constitutionally elected president… thereby placing the latter and the office of the President in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.”
–The law–
DSS says both counts violate Section 24(1)(b) and Section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2015, as amended 2024. Punishable under Section 24(1) and 24(2)(c)(i) of the amended Act.
–Court proceedings–
1. Plea: Charge read. Oweleke pleaded not guilty.
2. Prosecution: DSS counsel Barr. Michael Bajela asked for trial date + remand in Nigerian Correctional Service custody.
3. Defence: Counsel said a bail application had been filed and served. He was ready to move it.
4. Ruling: Justice Aluko adjourned till June 16, 2026 for hearing of the bail application. Defendant remains in custody.
The case highlights renewed DSS enforcement of the amended Cybercrimes Act, which expanded penalties for online content deemed to incite violence, threaten public officials, or undermine constitutional order.
The court will now decide if Oweleke gets bail pending trial.
