Quick Summary:
DSSArraignment as the Department of State Services (DSS) files a six-count charge against Innocent Chukwuemeka Onukwume for allegedly calling for a military coup through social media posts.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a six-count charge against Innocent Chukwuemeka Onukwume, accusing him of using social media to call for a military coup and the suspension of Nigeria’s democratic government.
The case, registered under FHC/ABJ/CR/610/2025, was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, with the DSS alleging that Onukwume’s actions violated provisions of the Criminal Code Act and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024 (as amended).
Details of the Allegations
According to the charge sheet, Onukwume, 27, a resident of Umusayo Layout, Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State, allegedly committed the offences in October 2025.
The DSS claims that Onukwume used his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, @theagroman, to publish messages that, according to prosecutors, encouraged military intervention and the suspension of the current administration.
The agency further alleges that the posts were intended to incite public unrest, undermine the government, and cause unnecessary alarm among citizens.
Legal Framework
The DSS stated that Onukwume’s actions contravened Sections 46A(1) and 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act, which prohibit acts capable of inciting rebellion or undermining the authority of the state.
He is also charged under relevant sections of the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalize the use of digital platforms to promote unlawful or destabilizing content.
Court Proceedings
A DSS spokesperson, Zagazola Makama, confirmed that Onukwume will be formally arraigned before the end of the week at the Federal High Court, Abuja.
The accused is expected to enter a plea to the six counts, after which the case will proceed through the criminal trial process.
Legal analysts note that the case could test the boundaries between freedom of expression and national security, particularly in the context of online speech and political commentary.
Broader Context
The arraignment comes amid heightened scrutiny of social media activity in Nigeria, as authorities continue to monitor online platforms for content deemed threatening to national stability.
Civil rights groups have urged the government to ensure that the trial is conducted transparently and in accordance with constitutional safeguards.
The DSS, however, maintains that its actions are guided by the need to protect national security and prevent incitement that could lead to unrest.
