The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has awarded ₦30 million in damages to former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore following an unlawful declaration by the Nigeria Police Force that he was “wanted” in October 2025.Nigerian Law Seminars
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Musa Kaakaki ruled that the action by CP Moshood Jimoh of the Lagos State Police Command was illegal and a direct violation of Sowore’s fundamental rights.
Speaking after the court session, Sowore hailed the ruling as a decisive blow against what he described as ongoing police impunity and abuse of authority.
“While the illegal IGP Kayode Egbetokun ran from courtroom to courtroom seeking ex parte orders to cover police illegalities, Justice Musa Kaakaki delivered a resounding blow to their tyranny this morning,” Sowore posted on social media.
He further emphasized that the court did not hold back in its condemnation of CP Moshood Jimoh.
“In a stinging and unequivocal rebuke, the court condemned CP Moshood Jimoh for unlawfully declaring me ‘wanted’ last October and awarded ₦30 million in damages against the Nigeria Police Force,” Sowore said.
According to the activist, the judgment sends a clear message to public officials: abuse of power carries consequences.
The controversial declaration in October 2025 had sparked outrage among civil society groups and human rights advocates, who viewed it as politically motivated and a misuse of police authority against a vocal government critic.
Sowore, a longtime activist with a history of confrontations with security agencies, marked Friday’s ruling as a major legal victory in his ongoing battles with law enforcement. He also praised his lawyer, Barrister Tope Temokun, for steadfast representation throughout the case.Law Practice Management
“Barrister Temokun anchored the case with diligence, courage, and precision. Justice prevailed, at least today,” Sowore remarked.
Previously, on November 14, 2025, SaharaReporters had reported that the Federal High Court in Lagos warned CP Moshood after he publicly claimed that Sowore “remains wanted,” despite an existing court order prohibiting such statements.
The case, filed under the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules, required the police to submit their defense within five days. The matter was ultimately heard on its merits, leading to Friday’s landmark judgment.
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