Court Exonerates IPOB’s Chika Edoziem, Demands Public Apology For Wrongful Accusation

Presiding over the case, Justice I.N. Oweibo ruled that Edoziem’s designation as a wanted person and security threat was unlawful and a violation of his fundamental rights.

Delivering judgment in the case between Edoziem and the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, the court declared that the inclusion of Edoziem’s name and photograph in the Ministry of Defence’s security threat publication on March 22, 2024, was unconstitutional.

Court Orders Public Apology & ₦5 Million Compensation

The court ordered the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff to retract the declaration and issue a public apology to Edoziem in two national newspapers.

In suit no: FHC/OW/FHR/29/2024, the court awarded Edoziem ₦5 million in damages for the violation of his right to dignity.

Notably, among all individuals listed in the security threat publication, Edoziem was the only one who successfully challenged his designation in court.

IPOB’s Lead Counsel Reacts

Reacting to the judgment, IPOB’s lead counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, hailed it as a “historic and landmark” ruling.

“Security agencies must prioritize proper profiling to identify actual criminals rather than targeting innocent citizens. The real perpetrators of crime operate in known locations, and tackling insecurity requires a collective effort beyond security forces,” Ejiofor stated.

He further emphasized, “Justice has prevailed, and we move forward with renewed faith in the rule of law!