Abdulkareem Musa, a member of Omoyele Sowore’s legal team, has accused the Federal High Court handling the activist’s case of creating what he described as a hostile atmosphere during recent proceedings.
Speaking on Arise News, Musa alleged that the presiding judge repeatedly directed Sowore to remove personal items, including his wristwatch, eyeglasses, and shirt, over suspicions that he intended to secretly record court proceedings.
“The judge asked Sowore to pull his wristwatch, shirt and eyeglasses because he thinks Sowore wants to record the proceedings,” Musa said.
The lawyer maintained that neither Sowore nor any member of the defence team attempted to record the court session. He argued that the repeated directives created an impression of bias against the former presidential candidate.
Musa further alleged that the court ordered a member of the defence team to kneel during the proceedings, describing the action as inappropriate and humiliating.
In response, the defence requested that the judge recuse himself from the case, citing concerns about the possibility of a fair hearing.
The proceedings followed Sowore’s application to vacate a bench warrant and restore his bail after his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre. The court adjourned its ruling on the application until June 30 and declined a request for his temporary release pending the decision.
The case has continued to attract public attention, with supporters alleging political motives, while security personnel maintained a strong presence around the courthouse during the hearing.
