The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the Nigeria Police to pay N10 million in damages for violating the fundamental rights of peaceful protesters during the #EndSARS memorial held on October 20, 2024.
Delivering the judgment on Thursday, Justice M. Kakaki condemned the actions of the police as unconstitutional and undemocratic, declaring that law enforcement authorities cannot suppress lawful gatherings under the guise of maintaining order. The judge emphasized that Nigerians have a constitutionally guaranteed right to peaceful assembly and expression, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.
The ruling comes as a powerful affirmation of the rights of citizens to commemorate the #EndSARS movement, a nationwide protest against police brutality that gained global attention in 2020. The October 2024 protest was held to mark the fourth anniversary of the Lekki Toll Gate incident, but participants were reportedly harassed, assaulted, and unlawfully detained by security forces.
Justice Kakaki stressed that democracy thrives when institutions respect the civil liberties of citizens, warning that Nigeria’s progress is threatened when authorities choose to silence dissent rather than listen to it.
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The case was filed by a coalition of concerned citizens and activists, including Hassan Taiwo Soweto, Uadiale Kingsley, Ilesanmi Kehinde, Osopale Adeseye, and Olamilekan Sanusi. Also joining the suit were three prominent human rights organizations: the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Take It Back Movement (TIB), and the Campaign for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).
This judgment is being celebrated as a significant legal milestone and a step toward accountability for abuses suffered by protesters. Activists are calling it a turning point in the ongoing struggle for justice and police reform in Nigeria.
The verdict not only reinforces the constitutional rights of Nigerians to protest peacefully but also sends a clear message that abuse of power will not go unpunished in a democratic society. As the #EndSARS movement continues to inspire civic action, this ruling may reignite calls for deeper systemic reforms and greater respect for human rights in Nigeria.
