Court Awards N48m Damages, Frees 13 Inmates in Taraba Over Human Rights Violations

The Federal High Court in Jalingo, Taraba State, acquitted and released 13 inmates who were held in custody without trial for six years. Barrister John Nkemnagum Okezi, representing the inmates pro bono, filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services.

Justice Maskur Salisu condemned the prolonged detention as a gross violation of constitutional rights, ordering their immediate release and awarding a total of N48 million in damages. The ruling was hailed as a major victory for civil liberties and emphasized the judiciary's duty to safeguard citizens' freedoms.