A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has adjourned the libel case filed by former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, against activist Omoyele Sowore to June 16, 2025. The adjournment follows a request from Fayemi’s legal team for more time, despite the case being scheduled for cross-examination on Monday.
Sowore’s legal team expressed frustration over what they called a last-minute reply served by Fayemi’s lawyers, even though the defense had been filed since June 2024. Sowore’s lawyer, Tope Temokun, criticized the delay, suggesting it was an attempt to stall the case. The court agreed to reschedule the trial, pointing out that Fayemi’s legal team had served documents on the day of the hearing.
The upcoming trial will allow Fayemi’s team to present witnesses, after which Sowore’s defense will follow. Despite the delay, Sowore’s lawyers emphasized that they remain fully prepared for trial, arguing that the late filing of documents had impeded the proceedings.
The case has garnered significant public attention, as it addresses legal questions about the right of citizens to critique public officials. The defamation suit stems from Sowore’s accusations against Fayemi, which include claims about financial mismanagement and corruption during his tenure as governor.
