In a landmark ruling, the Yola High Court has ordered the Department of State Security Service (DSS) to release three Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains who have been detained for undisclosed reasons. Justice Christopher Dominic Mapeo, who presided over the case, ruled that the detention of the PDP supporters was illegal and ordered their immediate release. The ruling has been hailed as a victory for democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
According to reports, the three PDP chieftains were detained by the DSS without any charges or trial. The affected PDP supporters, through their counsels led by Chief Lenord Nzadon, approached the court on the 20th of April, 2023, with their separate applications, asking the court to admit them to bail.
During the court session, Counsel to the applicants, Abayomi Akamode, informed the court that the DSS had sent text messages to them to come for the applicants’ bail. However, the counsels did not want to take any chances, and they prayed the court for an emphatic order for the release of their clients.
The ruling by Justice Christopher Dominic Mapeo has been commended by human rights activists and other stakeholders in the country. They have called for the government to respect the rule of law and due process in its dealings with citizens.
The court has adjourned the matter to the 3rd of May, 2023, for hearing of the motion on notice and for the Counsel to the 3rd defendant to file their defence. Counsel to the 3rd defendant, U. F. Ahmed, who held no objection, asked for an adjournment to enable them to file their defence.
In conclusion, the ruling by the Yola High Court is a victory for democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria. It is hoped that the government will respect the court’s decision and release the detainees immediately. The ruling also sends a strong message to the authorities that the judiciary is independent and will not tolerate any form of abuse of power or violation of citizens’ rights.