KADUNA, Nigeria — In a landmark ruling that echoes across Nigeria’s political landscape, the Federal High Court in Kaduna has ordered former Governor Nasir El-Rufai to pay N900 million in damages for the unlawful detention of nine Adara elders in 2019.
Key Takeaways:
- El-Rufai found personally liable for the 2019 unlawful detention of Adara elders.
- Court awards N900 million in damages against El-Rufai.
- Additional N10 million each awarded against the Nigeria Police Force, Inspector General of Police, and Kaduna State Commissioner of Police.
- Justice Hauwa’u Buhari emphasized the violation of fundamental human rights.
- Legal experts hail the judgment as a significant step towards accountability.
The Full Story
In 2019, following the tragic killing of Dr. Raphael Maiwada Galadima, the Agom Adara, tensions escalated in Southern Kaduna. During a town hall meeting convened by then-Governor El-Rufai, nine Adara elders, including Awemi Dio Maisamari, were arrested and detained without trial for over 40 days. Justice Hauwa’u Buhari, in her ruling, stated that their detention was a clear violation of their fundamental human rights.
Gloria Mabeiam Ballason Esq., counsel for the plaintiffs, described the judgment as a “watershed moment” in the fight against executive lawlessness. “This verdict reinforces the principle that public office does not grant immunity from accountability,” she remarked.
The court’s decision has sparked widespread reactions on social media:
Top Comments from X (Twitter):
@NaijaJustice: “Finally, a win for the common man. Justice served!”
@KadunaVoice: “El-Rufai’s actions have consequences. Kudos to the judiciary.”
@HumanRightsNGO: “This sets a precedent. No more impunity!”
@SouthernKaduna: “Our elders suffered unjustly. Today, we celebrate justice.”
@LegalEagle: “A significant step towards upholding human rights in Nigeria.”
@VoiceOfThePeople: “This judgment is a reminder that power must be exercised responsibly.”
@JusticeForAll: “Holding leaders accountable is essential for democracy.”
@KadunaChronicles: “A new chapter in the fight against executive overreach.”
@CitizensWatch: “The judiciary stands tall today.”
@RightsWatchNG: “A victory for the rule of law.”
Watch the full news report here:
This judgment marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s legal history, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of position, is above the law. As the nation watches, this case serves as a testament to the strength of the judiciary in upholding justice and human rights.
Source: Legit.ng
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