A landmark judgment was delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja, as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) was directed to pay Mary Kajo a sum of N100 million. This decision was made in response to the arrest, illegal detention, torture, and alleged death of her husband, Mark Kajo. The court also ordered the police authorities to pay an additional sum of N500,000 as the cost of filing the suit, along with a post-judgment interest of five per cent until the debt is fully settled.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, who presided over the case, emphasized that the police authorities did not contest the allegations brought forward by the applicant. He reiterated the legal principle that unchallenged affidavit evidence is deemed admissible and can be relied upon by the court. Furthermore, Justice Ekwo declared the killing of Mark in police custody as wrongful, illegal, and a violation of his constitutional rights.
The judge highlighted that the deceased had fundamental rights guaranteed under the law, and the brutal extrajudicial killing by law enforcement agents was a clear breach of these rights. He strongly condemned such actions, stating that law enforcement agents are duty-bound to protect citizens’ lives and property, and any violation of these rights warrants compensation and damages.
The lawsuit, identified as FHC/ABJ/CS/600/2023, named the Nigeria Police Force, IGP, Benue Commissioner of Police, and the Attorney-General of the Federation as respondents. Mary Kajo’s affidavit detailed the events leading to her husband’s arrest, alleging that he was detained, tortured, and ultimately executed without trial. She recounted the police’s claims regarding her husband’s involvement in car theft and his subsequent transfer to the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) in Abuja.
In response, the Attorney-General of the Federation, through a counter affidavit, refuted Mary’s claims, stating that none of her allegations were against their office.
This judgment serves as a significant legal precedent, shedding light on the protection of citizens’ rights and the accountability of law enforcement agencies. As the international community continues to advocate for human rights and justice, this case exemplifies the ongoing global conversation surrounding misconduct within law enforcement and the pursuit of legal recourse for victims and their families.
The ruling not only represents a victory for Mary Kajo but also sets a powerful precedent for holding law enforcement accountable for their actions and ensuring that fundamental rights are upheld. As such, it sends a clear message that unlawful conduct will not go unpunished, and justice will prevail for those whose rights have been violated.
In a broader context, this case underscores the universal importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law. It emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and justice within law enforcement agencies, resonating with global efforts to promote and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.
The court’s decision to hold the police accountable for the wrongful death of Mark Kajo serves as a reaffirmation of the international commitment to upholding human rights and seeking justice for victims of abuse of power. This landmark judgment reverberates beyond national borders, amplifying the imperative for legal and judicial systems worldwide to protect the rights and dignity of every individual.