A Federal High Court in Kaduna has ordered former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai and five others to pay N900 million to nine Adara elders for unlawfully arresting and detaining them in 2019.
Justice Hauwa’u Buhari gave the ruling on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. The court found that the arrest and detention of the Southern Kaduna elders violated their fundamental human rights.
The elders, led by Mr. Awemi Maisamari, filed the case after they were detained following the killing of the Adara traditional ruler, Dr. Raphael Galadima. El-Rufai, who was governor at the time, ordered their arrest, accusing Maisamari of being part of the “security problem” in Kajuru.
The judge ruled that El-Rufai’s actions were unlawful and personally held him responsible. She awarded N900 million in total damages against him. In addition, the court ordered the Nigerian Police Force, the Inspector General of Police, and the Kaduna State Police Commissioner to each pay N10 million in general and special damages.
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Lawyer to the elders, Gloria Ballason, praised the court for delivering justice. “This judgment marks a watershed moment in the fight against abuse of power and the enforcement of accountability, whether or not officeholders enjoy immunity,” she said.
She explained that the case was filed after El-Rufai left office, so he was sued in his personal capacity.
“Even when officials enjoy immunity, it does not justify executive lawlessness,” she added.
Ballason said the ruling is a major win for the Adara elders and a reminder that human rights must be respected by everyone, including those in power.
During the case, the 2nd and 6th respondents were represented by Solicitor General J.A. Danazumi and Koni Tauna, while Sirajo Mohammed represented the 3rd, 4th, and 5th respondents.
When asked to comment on the judgment, Danazumi declined.
The elders were eventually freed months after their arrest when the Attorney General advised that there was no evidence linking them to any crime. Those detained included former commissioner Bawa Magaji and a former police commissioner.