A Federal High Court in Kaduna has awarded N900 million in damages against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and five others for the unlawful arrest and detention of Adara elders in 2019.
Justice Hauwa’u Buhari ruled in favour of Awemi Dio Maisamari and eight others who were detained after the killing of their traditional ruler, Dr Raphael Galadima. The court rejected objections that it lacked jurisdiction, holding that their rights were clearly violated.
El-Rufai, sued in his personal capacity, had reportedly ordered the arrests during a town hall meeting, labelling Maisamari a security threat. The elders were held for months before being freed on the attorney general’s advice.
Lead counsel, Gloria Ballason, called the ruling a win for human rights and accountability. Respondents declined to comment after the judgment.
