Sowore Challenges DSS at Abuja Court Over ‘Stop Benue Killings’ Flag Ban

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore confronted operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Federal High Court in Abuja after they blocked an activist known as “Flag Boy” from entering the premises with a protest flag that read, “Stop Benue Killings.”

The incident occurred during heightened security surrounding the ongoing trial of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu. In a video posted by Sowore on X, he can be seen challenging DSS officials at the court entrance after they prevented Flag Boy and some other Abuja residents from attending the hearing.

Flag Boy, who was carrying a large Nigerian flag with the anti-violence message, told Sowore the DSS threatened to arrest him if he entered the court.

Sowore, visibly upset, said:
“Why would they arrest you? What did you do? Carrying the Nigerian flag is not a crime.”

He accused the DSS of abusing their authority and suppressing peaceful protest:
“Your job is not to block Nigerians from entering court premises. That’s not part of your mandate.”

When a DSS official said protests were not allowed on court grounds, Sowore pushed back:
“He is not protesting inside the court; this is the street. He has the right to be here and to carry the Nigerian flag.”

Sowore emphasized that Flag Boy was a long-time activist and his partner in the fight for justice, adding:
“He carries the biggest flag in Nigeria right now. The rest are asleep.”

He also criticized the DSS for prioritizing peaceful protesters over national security issues:
“Shouldn’t your focus be on ending the killings in Benue State instead of harassing citizens outside a courthouse?”

Despite Sowore’s efforts, the DSS refused to allow the activist into the court, citing lack of authority to permit entry.

The standoff occurred as Nnamdi Kanu’s high-profile trial continued under tight security. Kanu, who has been in custody since 2021, faces terrorism-related charges in a case that has drawn criticism from both local and international human rights organisations.