In a decisive ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a case brought against anti-hunger demonstrators, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Chiefs of Army and Defence Staff.
The lawsuit, initiated by a group of 17 Nigerians in reaction to the widespread protests, was thrown out due to insufficient prosecution efforts.
On Thursday, Justice Peter Lifu terminated the case, noting the absence of both the plaintiffs and defendants, as well as the lack of any legal representation for either side.
Despite the case being on the court’s agenda, Justice Lifu expressed his astonishment at the absence of the plaintiffs and their attorneys. Additionally, the defendants, including the Take It Back movement, Nigerians Against Hunger, the DSS, the IGP, and the Chiefs of Army and Defence Staff, also failed to present legal counsel or provide reasons for their non-attendance.
Frustrated by the situation, Justice Lifu concluded that it was clear the plaintiffs had lost interest in pursuing the matter, leading to the case’s dismissal.
The plaintiffs, representing the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, sought a court order to halt the protests, claiming violations of their fundamental rights, including freedom of movement, human dignity, property ownership, and national peace and security.
They requested that the court direct the Director General of the DSS, the IGP, the Chiefs of Army and Defence Staff, and the AGF to uphold their rights by restraining the protesters.
The plaintiffs pointed to substantial damage to both public and private properties in Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, and other areas as part of their argument.
However, the case was ultimately terminated by Justice Lifu due to the plaintiffs’ failure to actively pursue the lawsuit.
Notable plaintiffs included Danladi Goje, Buky Abayomi, Adiza Abbo, Ocholi Aduku, Francis John, Nnamdi Eze, Chibuzor Ifeanyi, Fesco Olatunde, and Ishaya Istifanus.
Defendants in the case included figures such as Omoyele Sowore, the AGF, the National Security Adviser, the IGP, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Chief of Defence Staff.
