The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned a man, Paul Oweleke, before the Federal High Court in Lagos over allegations that he used social media to promote a military coup against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Oweleke was brought before Justice Akintoye Aluko on a two-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime offences, including the dissemination of subversive messages and threats against the President through his social media platform, “Oweleke TV.”
According to the DSS prosecutor, Michael Bajela, the defendant allegedly transmitted messages and broadcasts on or about May 23, 2025, calling for the unconstitutional removal of President Tinubu and urging Nigerians to support a military takeover similar to the one witnessed in Burkina Faso.
The prosecution told the court that the broadcasts were capable of inciting public discontent, undermining law and order, and destabilising the country. Bajela further alleged that Oweleke used his platform to bully, threaten, and harass the President, thereby placing both the Nigerian leader and the institution of the Presidency in fear of death, violence, or bodily harm.
The DSS maintained that the alleged offences contravened Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024.
However, Oweleke pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read before the court.
Following the plea, the prosecution requested that the court fix a trial date and remand the defendant in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending the conclusion of the trial.
Counsel to the defendant informed the court that a bail application had already been filed and served on the prosecution. While seeking leave to move the application, the defence argued that the matter should proceed to consideration of bail.
In response, the prosecutor acknowledged receipt of the bail application but noted that it had been served shortly before proceedings commenced, adding that the prosecution required more time to review its contents and file an appropriate response.
After hearing submissions from both parties, Justice Aluko adjourned the matter until June 16, 2026, for the hearing of the defendant’s bail application. The court also ordered that Oweleke be remanded pending further proceedings.
According to the charge, the DSS accused Oweleke of deliberately using his social media platform to promote messages advocating a military coup as a means of overthrowing Nigeria’s democratically elected government, an act the agency described as subversive and capable of threatening national stability.
The prosecution also alleged that he transmitted messages considered threatening to President Tinubu, contrary to provisions of the Cybercrimes Act.