African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is increasingly uneasy over his rising popularity among ordinary Nigerians as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general election.
Sowore made the assertion on Thursday while speaking with journalists outside the Federal High Court in Abuja, shortly after the court warned that it could close his defence if he fails to continue with his trial at the next hearing.
The human rights activist is currently facing a criminal defamation case over social media posts in which he allegedly referred to President Tinubu as “a criminal” on his 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) and Facebook accounts.
During Thursday’s proceedings, the trial judge expressed concern over repeated delays in the matter and cautioned Sowore that his opportunity to present a defence could be withdrawn if he fails to proceed when the case resumes.
The court subsequently adjourned the case to allow the defence another opportunity to continue.
Reacting after the hearing, Sowore dismissed the prosecution as politically motivated, insisting that the case has more to do with his growing political influence than the allegations before the court.
According to him, his increasing acceptance among grassroots Nigerians has unsettled the ruling establishment.
“The real issue is the election that is coming. Tinubu is mortally afraid of the popularity we are enjoying among ordinary Nigerians,” Sowore told journalists.
‘We’re Winning Without Money Politics’
The former presidential candidate argued that his movement continues to attract supporters without deploying the financial inducements often associated with Nigerian politics.
He said unlike established politicians, his campaign has not relied on sharing cash, food items or other incentives to mobilise supporters.
“We’re not distributing money, bread, rice, soap or any gifts. Yet people continue to embrace our message because they believe in what we stand for,” he said.
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Sowore maintained that the growing support for his political movement reflects a desire among Nigerians for genuine leadership and systemic reforms.
The activist reiterated that his political ambition is driven by a desire to rebuild Nigeria’s institutions and improve governance.
He said his focus remains on providing leadership capable of strengthening democratic institutions, including the judiciary, while addressing longstanding governance challenges.
Sowore has consistently positioned himself as a vocal critic of successive administrations, advocating sweeping reforms to tackle corruption, improve accountability and strengthen democratic governance.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government insists that the case before the court relates solely to the alleged defamatory statements made against President Tinubu and has urged the court to determine the matter in accordance with the law.
The trial is expected to continue on the next adjourned date, with the court warning that Sowore’s defence may be deemed closed if he fails to proceed.