By Milcah Tanimu

In a significant legal ruling, the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has directed the Nigerian police authorities to compensate the parents of three Shiite members with a total sum of N300 million. This verdict comes in response to the tragic deaths of the Shiite members during an Islamic procession in Zaria in 2022.

Justice Hawa Buhari, delivering the judgment on April 22, 2024, affirmed the applicants’ rights as guaranteed under various sections of the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments. The court held that each parent of the deceased should receive N100 million as compensation and general damages, with a 10% annual interest until the full amount is paid.

The judgment consolidated three separate suits filed by the next-of-kins of the deceased individuals. The court ordered the respondents to issue a public apology to the applicants in a national daily for the violation of their fundamental rights.

The applicants had alleged that on August 8, 2022, Nigerian police officers shot and killed Jafar Magaji, Aliyu Lawal, and Muhsin Badamasi during their religious Ashura procession in Zaria. They filed suits against several police authorities, seeking redress for the illegal and unconstitutional actions that led to the deaths of their loved ones.

Despite objections from the respondents, Justice Buhari upheld the jurisdiction of the court and ruled in favor of the applicants. The judgment underscores the importance of upholding fundamental rights and holding accountable those responsible for violations, even among law enforcement agencies.