The Federal High Court in Abuja has reserved judgment in a case regarding the release of Nigerian prisoners held in Ethiopia’s Haliti prison. The lawsuit, filed by the Take Back Nigeria Initiative (TBNI) and coordinated by N. Abumchukwu Okoye, was heard on September 23, 2024, before Honourable Justice Inyang Ekwo.
Referred to as Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/305/2024, the case seeks a declaration and a mandamus order compelling various Nigerian government agencies—including the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Assembly, and the Attorney-General of the Federation—to take action to secure the prisoners’ release. Reports indicate that the Ethiopian government has urged Nigeria to repatriate its citizens.
During the hearing, all parties were present except for the Attorney General’s representatives. The court accepted a written argument submitted on behalf of the Attorney General and treated it as duly presented. After hearing final submissions from lawyers representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and the National Assembly, the court reserved its judgment.
Justice Ekwo indicated that the court would notify the parties via email or SMS once the judgment is ready.
Following the hearing, Okoye, lead counsel for the plaintiffs, expressed that the outcome now lies with the judge. “The judge may rule in favor of the prisoners’ release or against it, depending on his assessment. Whatever the judgment, our case is in God’s hands,” Okoye remarked.
Nigerians in the diaspora, especially those with family members detained in Ethiopia, are anxiously awaiting the court’s decision, hoping it will lead to the release of their loved ones. The Ethiopian government’s call for Nigeria to facilitate the return of its citizens adds further pressure on Nigerian authorities to take action.
