In a bold move, Lagos-based lawyer Olukoya Ogungbeje has filed a N1 billion Fundamental Right Enforcement suit against the Federal Government of Nigeria and various security agencies, challenging their attempt to forcibly disrupt the peaceful #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest scheduled for August 1-10, 2024.
Ogungbeje’s petition seeks a “declaration that any attempt to forcibly disrupt, disperse, or prevent the peaceful assembly and protest…without a court order, is illegal, oppressive, undemocratic, unlawful, unconstitutional, and a violation of rights under Sections 38, 39, and 40 of the Constitution.”
He argues that such actions would be a blatant disregard for citizens’ fundamental rights to peaceful protest and assembly.
The lawyer also requests a “declaration affirming that the court’s judgment in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/1371/2019, delivered on March 19, 2020, regarding citizens’ rights to peaceful protest, remains valid and binding until overturned.”
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This judgment had previously upheld citizens’ rights to peaceful protest, and Ogungbeje seeks to reaffirm its validity.
Furthermore, Ogungbeje demands an “order for the respondents to issue a public apology in all major national newspapers and to pay ₦1 billion in general and exemplary damages” for any violations of citizens’ rights.
He also seeks a “perpetual injunction restraining the respondents, their agents, officers, soldiers, and other affiliates, from harassing, intimidating, arresting, detaining, or taking any adverse action against participants in the peaceful protest…or any related events.”
In a supporting affidavit, Ogungbeje highlights his role as a legal practitioner dedicated to upholding constitutional rights and ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard.
His lawsuit is a testament to his commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of Nigerians and promoting a democratic society.
