In a landmark ruling that underscores justice for victims of state abuse, the Court of Appeal in Akure has dismissed an appeal by the Ondo State Government, thereby upholding a High Court judgment awarding N30 million in damages to Oluwasegun Oluwarotimi, a victim of an unlawful shooting by an operative of the Amotekun Corps.
The appellate court’s decision, delivered on Tuesday, reaffirmed the lower court’s ruling, which held the Ondo State Government and its security outfit accountable for the life-altering incident that left Oluwarotimi dependent on crutches.
A Life Altered Forever
The tragic incident dates back to 2021 when Oluwarotimi, a resident of Ondo State, was shot by an operative of the Amotekun Corps, the state’s security network. The shooting led to the amputation of his leg, plunging him into a life of physical and emotional struggle.
In March 2023, Justice Omolara Adejumo of the Ondo State High Court found the state government and the Amotekun Corps culpable for the unlawful act. The court awarded Oluwarotimi N30 million in damages, condemning the reckless use of force that had forever changed his life.
Government’s Appeal Dismissed
The Ondo State Government sought to overturn the High Court’s decision, filing an appeal that challenged the judgment. However, the appeal faced a significant setback as Oluwarotimi’s counsel, Tope Temokun, raised a preliminary objection, questioning the competence of the appeal notice.
Justice Oyebisi Folayemi Omoleye of the Court of Appeal ruled in favor of Oluwarotimi, striking out the appeal on the grounds of incompetence. The court’s decision was a firm rejection of the state government’s attempt to evade responsibility, further ordering it to pay N250,000 in costs.
“This appeal notice was fundamentally flawed and could not stand. Justice must prevail, especially for a vulnerable citizen whose life has been irreparably altered by the actions of a state agency,” Justice Omoleye remarked during the ruling.
A Victory for Accountability
For Oluwarotimi and his legal team, the Court of Appeal’s ruling is a beacon of hope for victims of state excesses. Speaking after the judgment, Temokun emphasized the moral and ethical obligation of the government to protect, not harm, its citizens.
“This judgment is a reminder that no one, not even the government, is above the law,” Temokun stated. “It is deeply concerning that public funds are being used to fight an appeal against a citizen who has already suffered so much at the hands of a state agency. This victory belongs to Oluwarotimi and every citizen who believes in justice.”
Justice for the Vulnerable
The N30 million compensation awarded to Oluwarotimi is more than a monetary settlement; it is a symbol of accountability. The ruling sends a strong message to government agencies about the consequences of unlawful actions, particularly those that infringe on the rights and dignity of citizens.
Human rights advocates have lauded the judgment as a step forward in the fight against impunity in state security operations. They have also called on the Ondo State Government to comply swiftly with the judgment, urging it to prioritize the welfare of victims rather than pursuing costly legal battles.
Moving Forward
Oluwarotimi’s case sheds light on the urgent need for reforms within the Amotekun Corps and other state security outfits. While these agencies are tasked with ensuring public safety, incidents like this highlight the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of strict oversight.
As Oluwarotimi continues to rebuild his life, his story stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of justice. For him, this victory is a step toward healing, a validation of his pain, and a hope that others will not suffer the same fate.
The Path to Justice
The Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold the High Court’s judgment is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s legal landscape. It reaffirms the judiciary’s role as a guardian of the rights of citizens, ensuring that even the most vulnerable can seek and receive justice.
As Oluwarotimi’s story resonates across the country, it serves as a powerful reminder that justice, though sometimes delayed, remains an unwavering pillar of democracy.
