The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned a 28-year-old man, Halidu Abdulmumeen, before a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Wuse, Abuja, over alleged inciting statements against the federal government.

The defendant was charged with inciting public disturbance. Prosecuting counsel, Y.I. Umar, told the court that Abdulmumeen used his account on X to call on members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria to attack the United States Embassy in Nigeria.

He further alleged that the defendant tagged the First Lady, Remi Tinubu, in a post where he described her as antagonistic towards Northern Muslims, adding that the message could incite unrest and threaten national security.

According to the prosecution, the offence contravenes Section 114 of the Penal Code.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Defence counsel, C.I. Nnemeka, urged the court to grant bail, citing the constitutional presumption of innocence and describing the charge as a mere allegation.

In his ruling, Magistrate Abubakar Sadiq granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500,000 with one surety, who must be a verified employee of a public or private organisation. The surety is also required to provide valid identification, proof of employment, and an affidavit of means, as well as reside within the court’s jurisdiction.

The case was adjourned until June 18 for hearing.