A school official, Mr. Ambrose Akhigbe, has filed a N550 million fundamental rights abuse suit against the Nigerian Army and several of its officials, including the Chief of Army Staff, over an alleged assault. The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed June 19 for judgment in the case.
Akhigbe, an Assistant Director at Command Secondary School in Lagos, claims he was beaten and nearly killed by military personnel after they accused him of filming the punishment of students. He alleges that the attack occurred on March 1, 2024, when he was assaulted with planks, whips, and sticks, resulting in severe head injuries. The plaintiff provided video evidence of the assault.
In his suit, Akhigbe seeks N550 million in damages, citing violations of his rights, including threats to life, assault, and maltreatment. He also demands an apology on national television and compensation for medical expenses. The plaintiff claims that the military failed to respond to his requests for accountability, despite his lawyers’ efforts.
The court had earlier ordered the Nigerian Army to be served notice through a widely circulated newspaper. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik confirmed that the case would be decided on June 19 after hearing the plaintiff’s arguments.
