Federal High Court Fines Police N10m for Rights Violations at #EndSARS Memorial

In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Lagos has fined the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police a total of ₦10 million for violating the fundamental rights of peaceful protesters during the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS memorial procession.

              

The verdict, delivered on Thursday by Justice M. Kakaki, found that the police harassed and violated the rights of demonstrators who had gathered to honor victims of police brutality.

The lawsuit was initiated by multiple individuals, including:

• Hassan Taiwo Soweto

• Uadiale Kingsley

• Ilesanmi Kehinde

• Osopale Adeseye

• Olamilekan Sanusi

• Miss Osugba Blessing

Additional applicants included Aisha Omolara, Thomas Abiodun Olamide, Kayode Agbaje, Jennifer Rita Obiora, Funmilayo Jolade Ajayi, and Gideon Adeyemi, among others.

The plaintiffs were supported by civil society groups such as:

• Take It Back Movement (TIB)

• Education Rights Campaign (ERC)

• Campaign for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR)

Justice Kakaki held that while the Nigerian Police are empowered to enforce the law, they are not above it, and must carry out their duties within the framework of the rule of law and democratic accountability.

“The applicants’ right to peaceful assembly and association, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, was clearly infringed,” the judge ruled.

The court's decision not only awards monetary damages to the applicants but also affirms the constitutional protections of citizens engaging in peaceful protest, especially in remembrance of the October 2020 #EndSARS movement.