Activists demand N1bn over alleged unlawful arrest during end bad governance protest

A Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice Simon Amobeda, has adjourned proceedings in a civil suit challenging the arrest and detention of six activists during the October 1, 2024, “End Bad Governance” protests.

The case, which was instituted on January 31, 2025, has been postponed until May 8, 2025, to allow the applicants to file additional information supporting their claims.

The six activists—Comrade Abdulmajid Yakubu Daudu, Barrister Yusha’u Sani Yankuzo, Barrister Amina Bello, Comrade Anas Ado Ahmad, Comrade Sani Ibrahim Narogo, and Comrade Abdullahi Adamu Mandawari—filed the suit against the Nigeria Police Force, the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, the State Security Service (SSS), and the Director of the DSS in Kano.

They are seeking legal declarations affirming that their arrest was unlawful, arguing that it violated their fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and free expression as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and People's Rights.

In addition to seeking recognition of the alleged rights violations, the activists are demanding a joint compensation of N1 billion.

They are also asking the court to issue a perpetual injunction preventing the security agencies from arresting them again in connection with the protest.

According to reports, the activists were taken into custody on September 30, 2024, in Kano by a combined force of DSS and police operatives.

They were later transferred to Abuja, where they were detained for two days without being formally charged.

During today’s proceedings, the police submitted a counter-affidavit in response to the activists' claims. The applicants, who need time to review the document, will respond in due course.

The next hearing has been scheduled for May 8, 2025.