By Abdulkarim Ibrahim
A federal high court in Lagos has ruled that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) breached the fundamental rights of #EndSARS protesters, awarding N10 million in damages. The court presided over by Justice Musa Kakaki delivered the judgment on Thursday.
The judge accused the police of violating the protesters’ rights during the October 20, 2024, commemoration of the #EndSARS demonstrations at the Lekki tollgate. The protesters had gathered to exercise their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The police arrested at least 20 demonstrators at the Lekki Toll gate and detained them in a police van for several hours before releasing them without charge. This action was deemed unlawful by the court.
The suit was filed by 22 individuals and three civic organizations, including the Education Rights Campaign, Take It Back Movement, and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights. They sought redress for the alleged unlawful arrest and violation of their fundamental rights.
The applicants argued that their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly were violated by the police. The court agreed, ruling in their favor and awarding damages.
The respondents in the suit included the inspector-general of police, the Nigeria Police Force, Lagos state commissioner of police, chairman of the Lagos state task force, Governor of Lagos state, and the attorney-general of Lagos state.
The court’s judgment serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding fundamental human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. The ruling also highlights the need for law enforcement agencies to respect these rights.
The N10 million damages awarded to the protesters is a significant victory for the individuals and organizations who brought the suit. The judgment is a testament to the power of the judiciary in protecting the rights of citizens.