Court Awards N48m Damages, Frees 13 Inmates in Taraba After 6 Years Without Trial

The Federal High Court in Jalingo, Taraba, acquitted and discharged 13 inmates who were held in custody by the Taraba State Correctional Service for six years without trial. Barrister John Nkemnagum Okezi, a human rights lawyer, filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit on their behalf.

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. This ruling is hailed as a major victory for civil liberties and emphasizes the judiciary's duty to safeguard citizens' freedoms.