Court Orders Kogi Governor to Pay N500 Million Damages to SDP Candidate
A Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, to pay the sum of N500 million to the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Murtala Ajaka.
The court, presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo, issued the order, citing a violation of Ajaka’s fundamental rights.
Justice Ekwo not only mandated Governor Bello to pay the substantial sum but also instructed him to publicly apologize to Ajaka for what the court deemed a “gross and unwarranted violation” of his rights.
Additionally, the judge issued a protective order requiring security agencies and their heads to ensure Ajaka’s safety.
The ruling further included an injunction prohibiting security agencies from engaging in actions such as arresting, abducting, detaining, or harassing Ajaka.
The court emphasized the need to prevent any threats to his life and properties.
The legal action was initiated by Murtala Ajaka, the SDP governorship candidate, seeking judicial protection against Governor Bello.
Ajaka’s lawyer, S.E. Aruwa, SAN, filed the originating motion on July 11, marking it as FHC/ABJ/CS/952/2023.
The suit named the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector General of Police, Kogi State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Service (DSS), and the Director General of the DSS as respondents.
Additionally, the Director of the DSS Command in Kogi, the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Chief of Naval Staff were also included as respondents.
The court’s decision reflects a significant development in the legal landscape, emphasizing the protection of individuals’ fundamental rights and holding public figures accountable for their actions.
Source: Daily Post
