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ECOWAS Court Declares Case Brought by Two NGOs for Alleged Violations of Human Rights, Inadmissible
ECOWAS Court Declares Case Brought by Two NGOs for Alleged Violations of Human Rights, Inadmissible
By: Michael Mike
The Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS, has declared the case of alleged human rights violations brought by two Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) against Nigeria inadmissible, citing their lack of capacity to initiate a public interest lawsuit.
In a judgment delivered by Hon Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, the Court equally dismissed all claims made by the applicants—the Incorporated Trustees of Prince and Princess Charles Offokaja Foundation, Nigeria, and Prince and Princess Charles Offokaja Foundation, Switzerland—against the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The case, filed under suit number ECW/CCJ/APP25/23, was brought by the NGOs, represented by their agent Charles Offokaja. The applicants alleged that Nigeria’s failure to construct a dam in Adamawa State, designed to mitigate the effects of overflow from the Lagdo Dam in neighboring Cameroon, violated the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens.
They argued that the delayed construction of the dam had resulted in flooding, contributing to widespread damage, loss of life, displacement, and the disruption of economic and educational activities across 14 Nigerian states.
The NGOs further contended that the dam project would have alleviated the flooding by enabling proper management of water, which could have been used for irrigation and electricity generation.
They also highlighted the devastating impacts of the Lagdo Dam releases in 2012 and 2022, including the destruction of property, health and environmental challenges.
On it part, the Nigerian government denied the claims, asserting that the pre-feasibility study conducted in 1982 was part of a broader initiative focused on the development of the Benue Basin’s water resources.
The government stated that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria and Cameroon was centered on enhancing cooperation in managing shared water resources. The Nigerian government also emphasised the steps it had taken to mitigate flooding, including building additional dams and securing a 2024 Senate resolution to facilitate the dredging of the Benue and Niger Rivers.
It argued that while the Court had jurisdiction to hear human rights cases, the applicants failed to demonstrate the specific victims affected by the flooding or to show any direct violations of rights.
In its judgment, the Court affirmed that it had jurisdiction to hear cases related to human rights violations. However, it concluded that the second applicant, a Swiss-registered NGO, lacked the legal capacity to bring a case before the Court.
Regarding the first applicant, a Nigerian-registered NGO, the Court acknowledged its claim to represent public interest but found that the case failed to meet the required criteria for public interest litigation. The Court stated that while the applicants referenced a broad class of victims—the Nigerian people—it was unable to identify or envision the specific victims whose rights were allegedly violated.
“The Court recalls that the requirement is that the class of victims in a public interest litigation even when indeterminable should be capable of being envisaged by the Court,” Justice Koroma said.
Consequently, the Court ruled that the first applicant also lacked the capacity to pursue the case on behalf of the public interest and dismissed the lawsuit in its entirety.
The judgment was delivered by a panel consisting of Honourable Justices Sengu Mohamed Koroma (Presiding & Judge Rapporteur), Dupe Atoki (Member), and Edward Amoako Asante (Member).
ECOWAS Court Declares Case Brought by Two NGOs for Alleged Violations of Human Rights, Inadmissible
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
By: Zagazola Makama
Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, Chief of Operations at the Naval Headquarters (NHQ), has died following a brief illness.
Rear Admiral Katagum, a highly respected officer of the Nigerian Navy, recently served at Defence Headquarters and was formerly the Chief of Naval Intelligence.
He was recently appointed Chief of Operations by the Chief of Naval Staff, a role in which he oversaw critical operational activities and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s maritime security.
During his distinguished career, Rear Admiral Katagum’s contributions to national security were immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping operational strategies, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and mentoring generations of officers who would go on to emulate his professionalism and dedication.
His insight, foresight, and meticulous approach to operations ensured that the Nigerian Navy remained vigilant, formidable, and ready to defend the nation’s maritime interests. His contributions played a vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and enhancing the operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy.
The news of his death has sent ripples of grief through the Armed Forces, with his colleagues describing him as a symbol of courage, discipline, and service excellence. Senior naval officers have expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a visionary leader whose legacy will endure within the Navy.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, he will be remembered for his humility, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of those who served alongside him.
As we mourn this extraordinary officer, we celebrate a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria, a life marked by courage, honor, and excellence.
May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may the Almighty grant comfort to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of serving with him.
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Kwara State has arrested 19 suspected bandits and cattle rustlers during a bush clearance operation around Ekati village, Lade.
Police sources said the operation, carried out in collaboration with Miyetti Allah vigilantes, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including Mohammed Salihu, 25; Mohammadu Musa, 23; Abubakar Sani aka Siddi, 25; Yusuf Isah aka Lariya, 22; Mohammadu Ibrahim aka Iro, 21; Mohammadu Sani aka Kachalla Ruga, 65; Musa Ado aka Mandu, 65; Abubakar Adamu aka Buba, 26; Mohammadu Zangina, 25; and Abubakar Shaibu aka Jijji, 20.
Most of the suspects were reportedly from Zamfara State, while one hailed from Niger Republic and another from Katsina State.
Police said 370 cows and 58 goats were recovered as exhibits from the suspects.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, the command added.
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered a firearm during a tactical operation along waterways in the state.
Police sources said the operation was conducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Feb. 16 by a SWAT team following credible intelligence on the activities of a militant group identified as the “Blin Blin Marine Strike Force,” allegedly operating along the Uruan waterways and Itu waterfronts.
According to the sources, officers on a clearance mission at Ikot Ika waterfront encountered the suspects in a gun duel. During the exchange, one police inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Two members of the group were neutralised during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped through the waterways with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the suspects included a G3 assault rifle and four rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the group was allegedly led by Ubong Effiong Archibong, also known as “Condiment,” who was on a police wanted list over alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping and violent crime incidents, including attacks on prominent individuals and security personnel.
The police said operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining criminal network.
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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