Court Awards N20bn Against DSS For Invading Igboho’s Residence
…As Yoruba Nation Agitators Celebrate In Ibadan
Supporters of embattled Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo aka Sunday Igboho on Friday celebrated the Court judgement against the Department of State Security (DSS).
Reports say Justice Ladiran Akintola of Oyo State High Court directed the DSS to pay N20 billion to Igboho for unlawfully invading his Soka, Ibadan house on July 1.
Igboho had sued the AGF, the DSS, and the director of the DSS in Oyo state, demanding N500 million as special damages for the damage done to his house and his car and another ₦500 billion as exemplary and aggravated damages for beaching his fundamental rights.
Two persons were killed while 12 others were arrested following the raid but 10 have been released.
Reacting, many supporters of Igboho who trooped out in a frenzy atmosphere in Ibadan, sang the Yoruba Nation anthem repeatedly.
Some others chanted “Yoruba Nation, no going back”.
Sheikh Abdul Raheem Aduanigba, Chief Imam of Yoruba in Ilorin, who also joined the supporters was quoted as saying: “What’s happening in Nigeria at the moment requires patience. The Yorubas at the moment are showing solidarity for Igboho. When Buhari was going to contest for Presidency, the Yorubas gave him support, but he has failed us.
“Benin Republic should also take a cue from the judgement which is a testament that Igboho is law-abiding, and did not foment troubles at any rally across southwest states.”
Also, the umbrella body of the Yoruba self-determination Group, Ilana Omo Oodua, asked the DSS to pay the N20 billion damages in the interest of peace.
“We thank the judiciary for re-affirming that self-determination is one of the fundamental human rights of the citizens that cannot be subjugated.
“Our position is that this verdict symbolises the triumph of light and truth over darkness. Ighoho represents the light and truth, while the Nigerian state stands for illegalities.
“Our position now is that the Nigerian Government should be honourable by respecting the verdict of a court of competent jurisdiction. The #20billion damages ordered by the court to be paid to Ighoho by the DSS must be paid with immediate effect in the interest of peace.”