Okuama Residents File N200 Billion Lawsuit Against Nigerian Army for Rights Violations

Residents of Okuama-Ewu in Delta State have taken legal action against the Nigerian Army, seeking N200 billion in damages for alleged rights violations. The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Warri, accuses the Army of unlawfully invading the community, destroying homes, and accusing residents of killing 17 soldiers without proper investigation.

The lawsuit, represented by a group of 17 residents including farmers, traders, and businessmen, alleges that the Army’s actions violated their fundamental human rights to fair hearing, dignity, freedom of movement, and property ownership. They assert that the Army’s deployment of troops without due process led to brutal attacks, displacement, and destruction of property, forcing them to flee into forests for safety.

The applicants, represented by lawyers including Chief Malcolm Omirhobo and Akpokona Omafuaire Esq., are seeking various declarations and orders from the court to hold the Army accountable for its actions. These include stopping further violations, allowing residents to return home, and compensating for damages suffered.

The Army has seven days to respond to the lawsuit, after which the court will schedule a hearing. Given the urgency of the matter, the court is expected to prioritize the case due to its nature involving fundamental rights violations.