The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has awarded ₦10 million in damages against the Nigeria Police for the unlawful harassment and violation of the fundamental rights of some #EndSARS protesters.
In a judgment delivered by Justice Musa Kakaki, the court held that the Inspector-General of Police and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police infringed on the constitutional rights of the protesters during the fourth memorial of the #EndSARS protests, held on October 20, 2024.
The applicants — including Hassan Taiwo Soweto, Uadiale Kingsley, Ilesanmi Kehinde, Osopale Adeseye, Olamilekan Sanusi, and Miss Osugba Blessing — had approached the court to seek redress over what they described as police brutality and unlawful detention.
They were supported by civil rights organisations such as the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Take It Back Movement (TIBM), and the Campaign for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).
While delivering judgment, Justice Kakaki emphasised that although law enforcement agencies are empowered to maintain public order, such powers must be exercised within the limits of the law and democratic principles.
“The applicants were unjustly harassed while peacefully participating in a constitutionally protected rally,” the judge ruled, adding that their treatment by the police amounted to a breach of their rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and dignity of the human person.
This ruling comes amid continued calls for justice and accountability for victims of police brutality, particularly in the wake of the #EndSARS movement that swept across Nigeria in 2020.
More updates to follow.
