The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday awarded N70 million in damages to Margaret Achalla, a nursing mother who was shot by police officers in her home 23 years ago.
The tragic incident occurred in 2000 when Achalla was bathing her newborn baby at her residence in Utako, Abuja.
The police officers, whose identities were revealed during the trial, shot her, leaving her in a pool of blood, seemingly left for dead.
The judgment, delivered by Justice G. Olotu, marks the conclusion of a lengthy legal battle that began in 2001, under the case file FHC/ABJ/CS/105/2001, with Margaret Achalla as the plaintiff and the Inspector General of Police and four other respondents as defendants.
The court ruled that the police’s actions constituted a gross violation of Achalla’s fundamental human rights, declaring the shooting as “unlawful and unconstitutional.”
In addition to the N70 million awarded, the court imposed a 5% annual interest on the damages until the full payment is made.
The total sum includes N10 million as general damages for the trauma and injury suffered, N50 million as punitive damages against the police for their actions, and an additional N10 million to cover the cost of litigation.
Achalla, who has endured two decades of physical and emotional pain, was supported throughout her legal journey by the human rights law firm Falana and Falana Chambers.
Her counsel, Abubakar Marshal, praised the court for finally delivering justice.
“This is a monumental victory, not just for Mrs. Achalla but for all victims of human rights violations.
“The court has affirmed the necessity for accountability, even when justice is delayed for more than two decades,” Marshal said in an interview.
The case highlights the dire need for reforms within Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies, particularly concerning their respect for human rights and adherence to legal standards.
The ruling sends a clear message that abuses of power will not go unpunished, and victims of such violations can still seek redress, no matter how long the process may take.
During the trial, Achalla presented substantial evidence to support her claims, including the extracted bullet from her body, medical reports, X-rays, photographs of her injuries, police extracts, and documents from the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
This overwhelming evidence led the court to affirm her case and hold the officers responsible for their actions.
The victory is a bittersweet moment for Achalla, who has waited 23 years for the court’s decision.
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