Shiites
The Court of Appeal sitting in Sokoto State has ordered the Nigerian police to pay N80 million to the Shi’ites, followers of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky (H), for attacking them while on religious procession on August 19, 2021, in the state.
In a unanimous judgment of a three-member panel of justices, delivered by Justice Mohammed Danjuma, the appellate court, faulted the judgment of the trial court delivered on May 17, 2022.
The panel agreed with the submission of the appellant’s counsel, led by M.D. Abubakar, that the trial judge, in his judgment, rather than relying on uncontroverted facts in the appellants’ various affidavits, opted unjustifiably to form opinions, raised doubts, and went on to resolve them against the appellants in an action for enforcement of fundamental rights involving lives. Continue Reading…
Recall that members of the Shiites had, on August 19, 2021, embarked on the Ashura procession to commemorate the killing of Imam Hussaini bn Ali bn Abi Talib (AS), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAWA).
While the procession was about to end, the officers of the Nigerian Police were alleged to have attacked the procession around the Mabera area of Sokoto town, Sokoto State.
Four mourners were said to have been killed and numerous others were injured in the incident.
The Shiites alleged that Hassan Abubakar, Imrana Umar, Bello Muhammad and Haidar Musa Bodinga were among those who were killed by the police.
After the incident, a fundamental rights suit was instituted before Justice James Omotosho at Federal High Court, Sokoto division where the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police in the state were sued as 1st and 2nd defendants.
However, Justice Omotosho delivered a judgement in favour of the police. Continue Reading…
Leave a Reply