Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has taken legal action against Oba Semiu Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile Ifo, seeking N200 million in damages over an alleged human rights violation. The lawsuit, filed at the High Court of Ogun State, Ota, aims to uphold the fundamental rights of Elder Areola Abraham Love JP and demands a public apology in The Punch, Vanguard, and Nigerian Tribune newspapers. Legal Action Against Oba Ogunjobi The lawsuit, dated March 7, 2025, accuses Oba Ogunjobi and his associates of assaulting Elder Areola, a 73-year-old man, in a widely circulated video. The footage, which sparked public outrage, shows Elder Areola kneeling beside a road while being physically attacked. Following the viral incident, the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) sought Falana’s intervention, leading to this high-profile case. Government’s Response and Legal Implications In response to public condemnation, the Ogun State Government suspended Oba Ogunjobi for six months and later arraigned him before a Magistrate Court on charges of assault. According to the court filings, Falana argues that: Falana’s Legal Demands The lawsuit seeks the following: Potential Legal Precedent This case is expected to set a legal benchmark for human rights protection in Nigeria, emphasizing the accountability of traditional rulers. For more insights into human rights law in Nigeria, refer to Amnesty International’s report on human rights violations. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
A Bayelsa High Court has convicted Prudent Oguruguru, a Senior Special Assistant on General Duties to the Bayelsa Governor, on charges of conspiracy to commit assault and assault occasioning harm. Background of the Case The incident occurred on February 20, 2024, at Agudama-Epie, where Oguruguru assaulted Ubong Effiong Ubek, leaving the victim unconscious. Following his arrest, Oguruguru was arraigned on a five-count charge, including conspiracy, attempted murder, assault occasioning harm, serious assault, and malicious damage. Trial and Evidence During the proceedings before Justice I.A. Orukari, Oguruguru pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution presented six witnesses and submitted seven exhibits to establish the case. Justice Orukari emphasized that the crux of the trial was determining whether the prosecution had proven the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Verdict The court ruled that the prosecution failed to establish evidence beyond reasonable doubt for charges of attempted murder and other related offences. Consequently, Oguruguru was acquitted of counts two, four, and five. However, the court found the prosecution’s evidence compelling for counts one and three, leading to a conviction for conspiracy to commit assault and assault occasioning harm. Sentencing During sentencing, Oguruguru’s counsel, Abadiofoni, pleaded for leniency, citing his client’s status as a first-time offender. The defendant himself also pleaded for mercy, explaining that he is the sole provider for his young family and elderly mother. Moved by his show of remorse and first-time offender status, Justice Orukari sentenced Oguruguru to three years imprisonment on each count, with an option of paying a ₦250,000 fine per count. The sentences will run concurrently. Conclusion This case underscores the legal consequences of assault and emphasizes the importance of ensuring justice while considering mitigating circumstances in sentencing. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Inspector-General of Police’s office filed the case, and His Worship Abubakar Umar Sai’id is the presiding judge. The Chief Magistrate Court in Kuje, Abuja, granted N500,000 bail to Abia State Representative Alex Ikwechegh after he was captured on camera attacking Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya. Ikwechegh was charged with three counts during Wednesday’s court appearance, which included assault, threat of death, and abuse of office. The Inspector-General of Police’s office filed the case, and His Worship Abubakar Umar Sai’id is the presiding judge. READ ALSO Ikewechegh entered a not guilty plea to the allegations when he appeared in court. His attorney applied for bail orally, and it was approved by His Honor the memory of Abubakar Umar Sai’id. In addition to two sureties in the same amount, his bail was set at N500,000. The sureties must be residents of the court’s jurisdiction and be able to prove their residency with utility bills. After that, the case was postponed until November 8.
