By Angela Atabo
The West African Youth Protection and Advocacy Network (WAYPAN) has welcomed the recent judicial victory of activist Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court in Lagos, describing the ruling as a landmark decision for youths’ rights and civic freedom in Nigeria.
The Regional Coordinator of WAYPAN, Mr Rafiu Lawal, told newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja that the fundamental rights enforcement suit ruling against the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, was a good development.
Lawal said the court held that declaring Sowore wanted and arresting him for leading a protest against community demolitions in Lagos violated his constitutional rights.
He said the court awarded ₦30million in damages and reaffirmed citizens’ rights to peaceful protest and assembly.
He said that WAYPAN described the judgment as not only a personal victory for Sowore but also a significant milestone for young activists who frequently face harassment from authorities.
The group said, “It strengthens judicial safeguards for civic engagement and highlights the persistent abuse of power by some security agents who disregard due process.
“We urge the police, other security agencies, and governments at all levels to treat this ruling as a wake-up call.”
Lawal said there should be an immediate review of cases involving harassment and rights violations, alongside concrete reforms in police leadership and operations.
He added that the court’s decision clearly rebuked the Lagos State Commissioner of Police for declaring a citizen wanted without judicial authorisation an overreach that undermines the rule of law.
He said it also reaffirmed that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right.
According to him, the ruling is particularly significant in light of recent incidents in Lagos, where police reportedly used force against peaceful protesters at the Lagos State House of Assembly.
He said that during the protest, activist Hassan Soweto and Dele Frank were allegedly assaulted and sustained serious injuries in spite of police presence.
Lawal said WAYPAN, therefore, called for comprehensive internal reforms within the police to ensure respect for citizens’ rights while maintaining law and order.
“We also urge governments to adopt people-centred policies, particularly on sensitive issues such as community demolitions, and to prioritise dialogue over force.
“Finally, we call on the Federal Government to undertake far-reaching police reforms to guarantee accountability and human rights protection,” he said.
Lawal said that laws granting sweeping or ambiguous powers, including national security and cybercrime laws, should be reviewed to prevent abuse and strengthen democratic oversight.
He said that WAYPAN was a youths-led regional platform dedicated to safeguarding civic space, promoting human rights, and advancing non-violent approaches to peace and justice across West Africa. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
