The ECOWAS Court of Justice has ordered the Nigerian government to pay journalist Jide Oyekunle ₦10 million in damages.
The ruling followed an incident during the #EndBadGovernance protest in Abuja on August 1, 2024.
According to the court, Oyekunle’s fundamental rights were violated while carrying out his duties as a journalist.
Oyekunle was covering the protest at Eagle Square in Abuja and while reporting, security operatives allegedly assaulted and detained him. His mobile phone was also seized during the incident. The journalist later took the matter to the ECOWAS Court.
After reviewing the case, the court ruled in Oyekunle’s favour. Judges said his right to freedom of expression was violated.
The ruling also cited violations of personal liberty and human dignity. In addition, the court found that the seizure of his phone breached his property rights.
Nigerian authorities defended the actions of the security agents, however, the court rejected those arguments.
The judges said the actions were neither necessary nor proportionate under international human rights standards a s a result, the government was ordered to pay ₦10 million in compensation and media advocates have welcomed the ruling. Many believe it strengthens protections for journalists across West Africa. The judgment also highlights the importance of press freedom during public protests.
For journalists, it serves as a reminder that their rights are protected under regional law. The Oyekunle case is being viewed as a major victory for media freedom.
It sends a clear message about accountability for attacks on journalists. Observers say the ruling could influence future cases involving press rights and security agencies.
