Sowore drops DSS DG Ajayi as witness in Tinubu defamation trial
Sowore told the court Tuesday he'll no longer call DSS DG Oluwatosin Ajayi as witness in his defamation case against Tinubu, saying the evidence regarding the letter demanding post removal can come from other DSS officials instead. AGF Fagbemi had objected to the subpoena, arguing the letter Ajayi would testify on was authored by Uwen Davis - who already testified July 22 and had that document admitted as evidence twice in court, making a third appearance unnecessary. Sowore's lawyer Fusika objected to Fagbemi's appearance in court, contending that Akinlolu Kehinde SAN remains the officially recorded Federal Government lawyer for this matter.
The judge adjourned proceedings until Monday August 3, 2026 for continuation of Sowore's defense. This development streamlines the case by eliminating redundant testimony about a document already twice admitted as evidence, potentially accelerating proceedings while maintaining evidentiary integrity. For observers, it highlights procedural tactics in high-stakes political litigation where witness strategy can significantly impact case trajectory and public perception of judicial fairness.
Does this procedural adjustment suggest the case is moving toward substantive arguments about the defamation claim's merits, or does it signal ongoing tactical maneuvering that delays substantive resolution?