From Godwin Agia, in Jalingo
The Federal High Court sitting in Jalingo, on Monday, ordered the immediate release of 13 men who were detained for periods ranging from one to six years without trial.
Citizenship Daily reports that the court ruled that their detention was a gross violation of their constitutional rights and awarded a total of N48 million in damages to the victims.
Justice Maskur Salisu condemned the prolonged detention of the men, describing it as “reprehensible and unlawful.” He emphasized that law enforcement agencies must operate within the confines of the law and uphold the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
The inmates were represented pro bono by human rights lawyer Barrister John Nkemnagum Okezie, who filed separate fundamental rights enforcement suits against the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services.
Human rights advocates have hailed the ruling as a major victory for civil liberties and a reaffirmation of the judiciary’s role as the last hope of the oppressed.
“This was a pro bono effort aimed at ensuring that justice is not reserved for only those who can afford it,” Okezie said.
He also urged the freed inmates to make good use of their second chance and avoid behaviors that could return them to prison.
Some of the released inmates, visibly emotional, expressed profound gratitude to the lawyer for his intervention.
“We would still be rotting in jail if not for his help, We’ve learned our lessons and will strive to live better lives,” they said.
