The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has awarded ₦10 million in general damages against the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the unlawful arrest, physical assault and seizure of property belonging to Mr. Jide Oyekunle, a journalist with Independent Newspaper.
In its judgment, the regional court held that Oyekunle's fundamental rights were violated, finding the Nigerian government liable for the actions that led to his unlawful arrest and the confiscation of his personal property.
The court consequently ordered the Federal Republic of Nigeria to pay ₦10 million as compensation for the rights violations suffered by the journalist.
The case stemmed from Oyekunle's complaint that he was physically assaulted, unlawfully detained and deprived of his belongings during the incident, prompting him to seek redress before the ECOWAS Court.
The judgment reinforces the court's commitment to upholding human rights, press freedom and the protection of journalists carrying out their professional responsibilities within member states.
Media stakeholders and rights advocates have described the ruling as a significant affirmation of the rights of journalists and the need for security agencies and public officials to respect constitutional and international human rights standards.
The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice serves as the judicial institution of the Economic Community of West African States, with jurisdiction over cases involving the interpretation of community laws and allegations of human rights violations within member countries.
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