The Federal High Court in Abuja will deliver judgment on June 19, 2024, in a N550 million lawsuit accusing the Nigerian Army and seven others of rights violations.
Specifically, Mr. Ambrose Akhigbe, an Assistant Director at Command Secondary School, Ipaja, alleges assault, battery, and death threats by military personnel.
Moreover, the defendants include the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, and four soldiers.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik fixed the date after the plaintiff’s counsel presented final arguments.
Notably, Akhigbe seeks compensation for brutal treatment that allegedly left him severely injured.
Additionally, he claims soldiers attacked him for recording female students being punished inhumanely.
Consequently, the case has drawn attention to military misconduct and civilian rights.
According to Akhigbe, Lieutenant Akabor and three privates ambushed him while he was heading to the Commandant’s office.
Furthermore, they allegedly beat him with planks, whips, and metal pipes, causing skull injuries.
Meanwhile, video evidence submitted in court supports his claims.
As a result, civilian staff protested, forcing the school to suspend operations temporarily.
The plaintiff argues that the attack violated constitutional and international human rights laws.
Besides demanding N550 million, he wants the court to declare the Army’s actions unlawful.
Previously, Justice Abdulmalik allowed substituted service after the Army avoided court notices.
Therefore, the case tests Nigeria’s commitment to justice and military accountability.
Legal experts anticipate the ruling could set a precedent for similar abuses.
Ultimately, the judgment will determine whether victims of military brutality can secure justice.
Human rights groups are closely watching, as the outcome may influence future complaints against security forces.
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