JUSTICE: The Nigerian Police Force, Fined N15m for Killing of Protesters in Abuja

Is N15 million worth the lives of three vibrant, innocent fathers, brothers, uncles, friend, and most especially Nigerians? The Federal High Court in Abuja awarded N15m damages against the Nigerian Police Force for the killing of three members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (Shi’ites).

Justice Taiwo Taiwo, in his judgement, awarded N5m for each family of the deceased. According to reports, the three members of the Shi’ites were allegedly killed (July 22, 2019) during a peaceful protest in Abuja for demanding the release of their leader, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, and his wife.

Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, his wife, Zeenah, and two others were charged by the Kaduna State Government on various offences including murder of a soldier. The allegedly murdered solider, Corporal Yakuku Dankaduna, was said to be in the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai, during the December 2015 bloody clash between soldiers in the convoy in Zaria, Kaduna state.

The family of the deceased, filed separate fundamental rights enforcement suits with each seeking N100m damages. Apart from the awarded N15m damages against the police, the court ordered the bodies of; Ibrahim Abdullahi, Ahmad Musa, and Yusuf Faska to be released to their families.

What do you think about the judgement? Is N5m each a worthy amount for a precious lost life? Share your thoughts by commenting, and don’t forget to download our App.