The Federal High Court in Lagos delivered a significant judgment on Friday, holding that Moshood Jimoh, Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, acted unlawfully when he declared Omoyele Sowore wanted. Musa Kakaki, the presiding judge, ruled that the declaration, issued in November 2025, constituted a violation of the activist’s fundamental human rights.
Sowore serves as the publisher of Sahara Reporters, an online news platform, and has established himself as a prominent human rights activist in Nigeria. The Lagos police commissioner issued the wanted declaration against him last year, prompting Sowore to seek legal redress through the courts.
Kakaki specifically found that Jimoh exceeded his authority in declaring Sowore wanted. Furthermore, the court awarded N30 million in damages to the activist in recognition of the violation of his rights. The judgment underscores the legal boundaries surrounding police powers and the declaration of individuals as wanted persons under Nigerian law.
This ruling sets a precedent regarding the limitations on law enforcement authority in Nigeria. Additionally, it highlights the judiciary’s role in protecting citizens’ fundamental rights against arbitrary actions by state actors. The decision arrives amid ongoing discussions about press freedom and the treatment of journalists and activists in the country.
Following the judgment, Sowore addressed the ruling. He stated, “This victory is not just for me but for all Nigerians who have been victims of police harassment and illegal declarations.” He added, “The court has affirmed that no commissioner of police can arbitrarily declare a citizen wanted without following due process.”
Femi Falana, who represented Sowore in the matter, also commented on the outcome. He said, “The judgment reaffirms the principle that the police must operate within the confines of the law.” He continued, “We hope this will serve as a deterrent to other law enforcement officials who might be tempted to abuse their powers.”
The Federal High Court has ordered the payment of N30 million in damages to Sowore. Meanwhile, the ruling stands as a notable development in the ongoing relationship between Nigerian law enforcement and civil society activists.
