Court Orders IGP to Pay N10M Compensation to #EndSARS Protesters

The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to pay ₦10 million in compensation for the unlawful harassment and violation of the rights of activists who participated in the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS protest on October 20, 2024. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Delivering the ruling on Thursday, Justice Musa Kakaki held that the protesters were entitled to their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and association, as guaranteed under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

While recognising the police’s role in maintaining law and order, the judge stressed that such powers must align with democratic values and the rule of law. The court ruled that the activists were unjustly harassed and intimidated during the peaceful procession, violating their fundamental human rights.

Applicants in the Suit

The case was filed by 23 individuals and three human rights organisations:

✅ Individuals: Hassan Taiwo Soweto, Uadiale Kingsley, Ilesanmi Kehinde, Osopale Adeseye, Olamilekan Sanusi, Miss Osugba Blessing, Kayode Agbaje, Michael Adedeji, Jennifer Rita Obiora, Orunsola Oluremi, Seyi Akinde, Akin Okunowon, Ugochukwu Prince, Aisha Omolara, Thomas Abiodun Olamide, Ogbu Obinna Ferdinald, Aghedo Kehinde Stephen, Duronike Olawale, Isaac Obasi, Funmilayo Jolade Ajayi, Gideon Adeyemi, and Afeez Suleiman.

✅ Organisations: Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Take It Back Movement (TIB), and Campaign for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).

Rights groups have hailed the ruling as a landmark victory for civil liberties and a reaffirmation of citizens’ right to peaceful protest. The IGP is yet to issue an official response to the judgment.