In a significant legal development, Justice Olukayode Adeniyi of an FCT High Court has delivered a ruling in favor of the suspended former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), awarding N100 million in damages against the federal government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The ruling comes in response to the violations of rights faced by the ex-CBN governor.
Godwin Emefiele, the suspended former CBN governor, initiated legal proceedings, seeking the court’s declaration that his prolonged detention without arraignment since June 10, 2023, and subsequent transfer to the EFCC’s custody on October 26, 2023, without formal charges, constitutes an unlawful act and a violation of his fundamental rights.
Justice Adeniyi’s ruling underscores the significance of safeguarding individuals’ rights within the legal framework. The court has deemed the actions taken against Emefiele as a breach of his fundamental rights, leading to the awarding of N100 million in damages against the federal government and the EFCC.
Emefiele’s legal action not only sought a declaration of the unlawfulness of his detention but also requested an injunction against any further arrest and detention without proper charges. Additionally, he sought damages amounting to N1 billion for the infringement of his fundamental rights.
This judgment serves as a reminder of the crucial role that proper legal procedures and adherence to court orders play in the administration of justice. It emphasizes the need for authorities to uphold individuals’ rights, ensuring that legal processes are followed diligently. The ruling sets a precedent for accountability and protection of fundamental rights, contributing to the ongoing discourse on the rule of law and justice in Nigeria.
