ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) The Federal High Court in Abuja has awarded N200 million in damages against the Nigeria Police Force over the unlawful killing of Mallam Kabiru Babai, a truck driver and community leader, who was shot dead by a police officer in Osun State in 2021.
Justice Peter Lifu delivered the judgment Thursday, ruling that Babai’s fundamental right to life was violated by the conduct of Sgt Moses Samuel, who allegedly struck and shot him during a roadside altercation in Osogbo.
“The gravity of the violation and its devastating consequences on the widow and children must be taken into account,” Justice Lifu said, granting compensatory and exemplary damages to Babai’s widow, Balkisu Kabiru-Babai, who filed the suit through lawyer Okpi Adaafu.
The court declared the killing unlawful and ordered the Police Service Commission, Inspector-General of Police, and Osun State Commissioner of Police to commence prosecution of Samuel. However, it declined to compel the Attorney-General of the Federation to institute criminal proceedings, ruling that the police remain the appropriate authority to prosecute.
Babai, described as an imam, philanthropist, and breadwinner, was killed on Dec. 3, 2021, after his truck broke down in Osogbo. Witnesses said police officers arrived, shot his co-driver in the hand, and then attacked Babai when he questioned their actions. He was struck with a shovel, kicked repeatedly, and fatally shot in the chest.
Although Samuel was indicted for murder, he was never prosecuted, and Babai’s family received no support. The ruling marks a significant victory for the community and underscores ongoing concerns about police brutality and accountability in Nigeria.
