The ECOWAS Court of Justice is set to deliver its verdict on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, in a case brought by Amb. Ali Ocheni and four others against the Federal Republic of Nigeria, accusing the nation of violating their human rights.
The Applicants, including Amb. Ali Ocheni, Hajiya (Chief) Rekiya M. Abaji, Dr. Sebastine Abuh, Suleimane Akpa, and Dr. Ojoachele Akor Felix, all Nigerian citizens, cited various international and regional human rights conventions in their case.
They alleged that Nigeria had violated their rights to freedom of movement, expression, and association. Specifically, they claimed that the state had failed to protect the citizens of Kogi State, leading to widespread insecurity and fear among them, particularly in the lead-up to the gubernatorial elections in November 2023.
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Nigeria, in its defense, denied these allegations and argued that the period leading up to elections is often characterized by unrest worldwide.
The state maintained that it had taken security measures to protect its citizens.
It argued that the Applicants were impatient. In addition, it challenged the Applicants’ capacity to bring this action before the Court and asked the Court to dismiss their application.
During the hearing on Friday, October 27, 2023, the Court heard the arguments of both parties. It granted the Respondent’s request for an extension of time to file its defence.
In addition, it granted the Applicants’ request to withdraw its application for default judgment.
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It also heard the parties on the Applicants’ application for interim measures and accelerated procedure and decided to give its ruling jointly with the judgment.
It heard them on the merits and decided to deliver its judgment on October 31, 2023.
The panel of three judges on the bench is composed of Hon. Justice Gberi-Bè Ouattara, Presiding; Hon. Justice Dupe Atoki, Judge Rapporteur; and Hon Justice Ricardo Claúdio Monteiro Gonçalves, Member.