Agency accuses suspect of inciting public disorder, undermining democracy
The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a six-count criminal charge against a 27-year-old man, Innocent Chukwuemeka Onukwume, accusing him of using social media to call for a military coup and actions deemed capable of destabilizing Nigeria’s democratic system.
According to the charge sheet marked FHC/ABJ/CR/610/2025, and filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja, Onukwume, a resident of Umusayo Layout in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State, allegedly committed the offences in October 2025.
The DSS, through its counsel, A.M. Danalami, filed the case on November 11, alleging that the suspect’s online activities amounted to conduct likely to cause public fear, incite disorder, and undermine the constitutional government of Nigeria.
Prosecutors said Onukwume, using his verified X (formerly Twitter) account @theagroman, posted a series of messages advocating a coup and attacking the leadership of the Federal Government. In one of the alleged posts, he reportedly wrote:
“A coup in Nigeria is needed. Dispose of APC, suspend the Nigerian government and join the AES. That is all we need now.”
The DSS said such statements contravene Sections 46A(1) and 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act, which criminalize acts considered treasonable or likely to cause public disorder.
The agency also accused Onukwume of violating provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024 (as amended) by using social media to spread messages capable of inciting hatred and undermining public peace.
One of the counts alleged that he posted inflammatory statements claiming that only the military could “reset” Nigeria, while another accused him of using abusive language against President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to court documents, the DSS maintained that his posts were deliberate attempts to “cause fear, hatred, and ill will against the government” and to “provoke a breakdown of law and order.”
Sources at the Federal High Court indicated that Onukwume is expected to be arraigned before the end of the week, where he will formally enter his plea to the six-count charge.
If convicted, he faces several years of imprisonment under Nigeria’s criminal and cybercrime laws.