Trending News:Kogi Guber: Nigerian Court Orders Yahaya Bello To Pay Ajaka N500m – see why

According to Sahara Tv, a Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that Governor Yahaya Bello must pay the sum of N500 million to Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka for the violation of his fundamental rights. Ajaka, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the November 11, 2023, governorship election, had approached the court seeking protection and redress.

Justice Inyang Ekwo delivered the judgment on Thursday in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/952/2923, a human rights enforcement application brought by Ajaka against Governor Bello and others. The court not only awarded N500 million in damages but also ordered Governor Bello to issue a public apology to Ajaka, with the apology to be published in both print and electronic media.

The legal battle unfolded as Ajaka, represented by his counsel Mr S.E. Aruwa, SAN, expressed concerns over an alleged plan to arrest him, asserting that his life was in jeopardy. The fundamental rights enforcement suit sought protection for Ajaka’s rights to life, dignity, personal liberty, fair hearing, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and freedom of movement.

Justice Ekwo had reserved judgment on September 25 after both parties presented their arguments. Governor Bello’s legal team, led by A.M. Adoyi, had filed a preliminary objection, challenging the court’s jurisdiction, and sought to have the suit dismissed. However, Aruwa countered, emphasizing their application was filed earlier, and they responded comprehensively to the governor’s arguments.