The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a request by Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate for the African Action Congress, to subpoena the lawyer representing the Department of State Services (DSS). The court rejected the application, which sought to compel the DSS counsel to appear in the trial.

Sowore’s legal team had argued that the testimony of the DSS lawyer was essential to the case, which involves allegations of cyberbullying. The court, however, ruled that the request did not meet the necessary legal standards. The decision comes as the trial continues without the testimony in question.

This is the second time the court has denied a request related to the case. Earlier, the court had dismissed an attempt to obtain evidence from a third party. The trial has been ongoing for several months, with both sides presenting arguments and evidence. The outcome of the case could have implications for legal procedures in cyber-related cases.

The court’s decision underscores the strict procedural requirements in legal proceedings, particularly in politically sensitive cases. The case has drawn attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendant and the potential impact on public discourse. Legal experts have noted that the ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving similar issues.