24-Hour Demand from Nigerian Authorities
The Nigerian government has issued a strict 24-hour deadline to X.com, ordering the removal of a tweet by activist and politician Omoyele Sowore targeting President Bola Tinubu.
Officials described the post as misleading, potentially harmful, and a threat to national security.
Sowore’s Controversial Post
Sowore, known for his criticism of Nigerian administrations, accused Tinubu of misrepresenting the state of corruption in Nigeria during his recent trip to Brazil. In his tweet, he stated:
“This criminal @officialABAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is NO MORE corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!” The message quickly went viral, prompting intervention from government authorities.
DSS Official Notice to X.com
In a letter dated September 6, 2025, the Department of State Services (DSS) formally contacted X.com’s leadership in Texas. Signed by B. Bamigboye on behalf of the DSS Director General, the notice instructed the platform to remove the offending tweet within 24 hours.
Government Concerns
The DSS argued that Sowore’s message could generate “nationwide chaos” and embarrass the president on the international stage. The agency said the tweet intentionally spread false information and undermined Nigeria’s reputation abroad.
Legal Justification
Authorities cited several laws to support their ultimatum:
- Section 51 of the Criminal Code Act Cap 77, prohibiting the publication of false information.
- Sections 19, 22, and 24 of the Cybercrime Act 2025, addressing fake news, offensive content, and online harassment.
- Section 2 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, which covers content capable of inciting division or hatred.
Platform Accountability
The DSS warned that both Sowore and X.com could face criminal liability if the tweet remained online. The agency urged the platform to enforce its policies and remove the content, including any retweets or reposts, to prevent further amplification.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The notice stressed that ignoring the order could trigger “sweeping measures” by Nigerian authorities under their legal mandate. The DSS described the demand as “unequivocal” with serious implications for the platform if left unaddressed.
Historical Context
This move is the latest in a series of confrontations between Nigerian authorities and social media platforms. In recent years, the government has increased oversight of online content, citing misinformation and threats to national unity.
Sowore’s Activism
Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate, has repeatedly clashed with authorities over his outspoken criticism.
He has previously faced arrest for protests and activism, which he claims were attempts to silence dissenting voices.
Debate Over Free Speech
The incident has reignited discussions on freedom of expression in Nigeria. Critics warn that labelling online political criticism as a national security threat risks suppressing legitimate voices and setting a dangerous precedent.
Potential Outcomes
It remains uncertain whether X.com will comply with the Nigerian government’s order. Compliance could raise concerns about online censorship, while defiance could escalate tensions between Nigeria and the platform.
As the 24-hour deadline approaches, all eyes are on X.com’s decision. The standoff underscores the growing conflict between state regulation of online content and activists defending digital freedoms, highlighting a critical debate over speech, security, and accountability in the digital era.
