Residents of Okuama-Ewu, Ughelli South Local Government Area in Delta State, have filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian Army at the Federal High Court in Warri, seeking N200 billion in damages for alleged violations of their fundamental human rights.
The applicants, comprising farmers, traders, and businessmen, are: Victor Akemor, Madam Omotiwori Olarehor, Victor Odi, Okrika Emmanuel, Austin Eferemua, Evelyn Edjekola, Pa James Ubredu, David Oghenewede, Lucky Orode, Iwriogbo Best, Felix Orhiunu, Bernard Michael, Oghenekobiruo, Vero Joseph, Ebikawe Emmanuel, Francis Uphurie, and Hon Belvis Adogbo.
They are suing on behalf of themselves and the residents of Okuama community.
**Alleged Violations**
The applicants allege that the Nigerian Army:
* Accused them of killing 17 soldiers without police investigations or due process.
* Deployed troops for reprisal attacks, killing, maiming, and destroying their properties.
* Cordoned off the Okuama community, denying them access to their homes and businesses.
* Evicted them from their homes, violating their privacy and family life.
* Razed and burned down their buildings, leaving only three structures standing.
* Seized their land without compensation.
* Committed acts of abuse of power.
**Reliefs Sought**
The applicants are seeking the following reliefs:
* A declaration that the army’s actions violate their fundamental rights.
* An order to enforce their rights to dignity, fair hearing, privacy, freedom of movement, and property ownership.
* An injunction restraining the army from further violations.
* An order compelling the army to cease occupation of Okuama community.
* An order to allow residents to return to their homes.
* A perpetual injunction against the army’s alleged harassment and intimidation.
* Damages of N100 billion for violation of their rights.
* Damages of N100 billion for abuse of power.
The Nigerian Army has seven days to respond to the claim. The court will determine a date for the hearing of the application. CONTINUE READING
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