A human rights activist, Akande Daniel Babatunde, has filed a lawsuit against the Inspector General of Police, National Security Adviser, State Security Service, and the Attorney General of the Federation, challenging his ongoing detention by security forces.
According to Sahara Reporters, Babatunde, a member of the Solidarity Network for Workers’ Rights, was arrested during a church service in Abuja on September 1, 2024, and has been held without charge since then. The arrest is believed to be related to his involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests that took place from August 1 to 10, 2024.
In his lawsuit, Babatunde seeks the enforcement of his fundamental rights to personal liberty and freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. He argues that his arrest and continued detention without being brought before a court of law violate his constitutional rights.
Babatunde is requesting the court to declare his arrest and detention unlawful, order his immediate release, and award him ₦300 million in damages. Additionally, he is seeking an injunction to prevent further harassment or detention by security agencies.
The suit alleges that Babatunde’s arrest and detention were unlawful and violate his fundamental rights.
It also accuses the Attorney General of the Federation of failing to direct the release of the Babatunde, further compounding the breach of his fundamental human rights as guaranteed under Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
The activist is seeking several orders from the court, including:
- A declaration that his arrest and detention are unlawful.
- An order for his immediate release.
- An award of ₦300 million in damages.
- An injunction to prevent further harassment or detention.
- An order compelling the government to produce him before a court of law.
Babatunde’s lawsuit highlights the ongoing challenges faced by human rights activists in Nigeria and the need for the government to respect the rule of law and uphold citizens’ fundamental rights.
