Assault: ECOWAS court orders FG to pay N10m damages to journalist

Nigeria's Federal Government has been ordered to pay 10 million naira (approximately $7,000 USD) in damages to journalist Jide Oyekunle. The ruling came from the Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The court found the Federal Government liable for the physical assault, unlawful arrest, and seizure of property that Oyekunle experienced. The judgment acknowledges the violation of the journalist's rights by state actors. The specific circumstances leading to the assault and arrest were not detailed in the provided text, but the court's decision affirms accountability for the actions taken against Oyekunle.

This ruling by the regional court underscores the importance of protecting journalists and upholding their rights within ECOWAS member states. The award of general damages aims to compensate Oyekunle for the harm suffered due to the government's actions.