Editorial: Court bars Sowore, Sahara Reporters from publishing content on IGP Egbetokun, family

In a significant ruling, the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, has granted an interim injunction restraining activist Omoyele Sowore and the online news platform Sahara Reporters from publishing content related to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, his family, or his office, pending the hearing of a defamation suit.

The injunction, issued by Justice J.O.E. Adeyemi-Ajayi, specifically bars the defendants from publishing content alleged to be defamatory, including recent claims that Victor Egbetokun, the IGP’s son, received N100 million from Anambra State security votes.

The court’s order followed an ex parte motion filed by the claimant through counsel, Chief Ayotunde Ogunleye, SAN, on February 11, 2026. The application cited Section 6(6) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Order 30 Rule 3 of the High Court of the FCT Civil Procedure Rules 2025, and the inherent jurisdiction of the court.

Justice Adeyemi-Ajayi granted the interim relief after hearing the claimant’s counsel, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice. The case has been adjourned to April 14, 2026, for further proceedings.

The enrolled court order reads in part:
“The defendants, their servants or agents, privies, or any person deriving power and instruction from them are hereby restrained from making any publications concerning the claimant, his office, and/or family members, or on such other matters relating to the subject matter of this suit, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”

The injunction responds to claims that Sowore and Sahara Reporters published content deemed “degrading and derogatory” towards the IGP and his son, raising concerns over potential defamation.

This development underscores the judiciary’s active role in balancing freedom of the press with protection of individual reputation, as the case awaits substantive hearing in April.