The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has awarded N900m in damages against former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai, and five others for violating the fundamental human rights of Adara elders in Kaduna State.

The judgment was delivered on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, by Justice Hauwa’u Buhari in a case filed by Mr. Awemi Maisamari and eight other Southern Kaduna Adara elders, who were illegally detained in 2019.

According to the court, El-Rufai’s actions were unlawful, making him liable for the damages awarded.

The judge ordered a compensation sum of N900m against El-Rufai for the arbitrary arrest he personally orchestrated.

In addition, the court awarded N10m each in general and special damages against the Nigerian Police Force, the Inspector General of Police, and the Commissioner of Police of Kaduna State.

Reacting to the judgment, counsel for the applicants, Gloria Ballason, who led Senior Advocates Alkali and J.N. Buzun, described the ruling as a landmark victory against fundamental human rights abuses and abuse of power by the former governor.

“This judgment marks a watershed moment in the fight against abuse of power and the enforcement of accountability, whether or not officeholders enjoy immunity,” Ballason said.

She added, “The case was filed after Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai had left office, which explains why he was sued in his personal capacity as the first respondent. Even when officials enjoy immunity, it does not justify executive lawlessness.”

Ballason emphasised that the judgment serves as a significant victory for the Adara elders and a strong reminder of the importance of respecting human rights and accountability, even for those in positions of authority.

The 2nd and 6th respondents were represented by J.A. Danazumi Esq., Solicitor General, and Koni Tauna Esq., while Sirajo Mohammed Esq. represented the 3rd, 4th, and 5th respondents.

When contacted for comment, counsel for the respondents and Solicitor General, J.A. Danazumi, declined to comment.

The PUNCH reports that the applicants were arrested and detained in 2019 following the murder of the paramount ruler, Dr. Raphael Galadima.

El-Rufai, who was governor at the time, personally ordered the arrest of Mr. Awemi Maisamari, labeling him “part of the security problem” in Kajuru.

Maisamari, then National President of the Adara Development Association, was detained alongside eight other Adara elders, including a former commissioner, Bawa Magaji, and a former police commissioner.

The applicants were eventually released after months in detention, following the advice of the Attorney General, who found no incriminating evidence against them.