The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the Inspector-General of Police and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to pay ₦10 million in damages for violating the fundamental rights of peaceful protesters during the 2024 #EndSARS memorial.
Delivering the judgment on Thursday, Justice M. Kakaki ruled that the actions of the police against the applicants during the October 20, 2024 protest were unlawful and a clear breach of constitutional rights.
“The applicants were unjustly harassed and their rights infringed upon,” the judge stated. He emphasized that while security agencies are empowered to enforce the law, such powers must be exercised within the bounds of democratic principles and the rule of law.
Citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Justice Kakaki reaffirmed the right of citizens to freely assemble and associate, particularly for peaceful protests.
The applicants in the suit include 22 individuals such as Hassan Taiwo Soweto, Uadiale Kingsley, Ilesanmi Kehinde, Osopale Adeseye, and Aisha Omolara, among others. The court also recognised the roles of three civic organisations: the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), the Take It Back Movement (TIB), and the Campaign for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).
The ruling has been widely hailed by human rights groups and activists as a major legal victory for civic freedom and accountability. Many see it as a strong message against police impunity and a step forward in protecting democratic rights in Nigeria.
