ECOWAS Court Orders Release of Nigerian Businessman, Awards N20 Million in Damages
Abuja, Nigeria – In a landmark ruling that highlights the growing influence of regional courts in addressing human rights violations, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice has ordered the immediate release of Nigerian businessman Moses Abiodun. Abiodun, who has been detained without trial since 2009, was declared unlawfully imprisoned by the court on Thursday.
The court found the Nigerian government culpable for multiple violations of Abiodun’s fundamental human rights, a situation that has persisted for over a decade. In addition to his immediate release, the ECOWAS Court ordered the Nigerian government to pay N20 million (approximately $48,000 USD) in compensation to Abiodun.
The ruling follows a lengthy legal battle initiated by Abiodun, who argued that his prolonged detention without charge or trial constituted a blatant disregard for his constitutional rights. His lawyers presented evidence documenting the lack of due process and the absence of any legitimate legal basis for his continued imprisonment.
The ECOWAS Court’s judgment specifically cited violations of Articles 6 and 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantee the right to liberty and security of person and the right to a fair trial. The judges deemed the Nigerian government’s actions a clear breach of these fundamental human rights.
“This ruling sends a strong message to member states of ECOWAS regarding their obligation to uphold the rule of law and protect the fundamental human rights of their citizens,” stated Justice, in a statement released following the verdict. “The Court will not tolerate the persistent violation of these rights, and will continue to hold governments accountable for their actions.”
The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official response to the court’s ruling. However, the decision is expected to have significant ramifications, both domestically and regionally. Human rights advocates have hailed the ruling as a victory for justice and a powerful affirmation of the ECOWAS Court’s authority in safeguarding human rights within the West African region. The case is likely to set a precedent for future challenges to unlawful detentions and human rights abuses within the ECOWAS community. Observers are now closely watching to see how the Nigerian government will respond to the court’s order and whether Abiodun will be released immediately as mandated.
