By Levi I. Shaapera, Esq. “In Nigeria, wrongdoers get away with impunity because the system offers no immediate remedy.” – J.S. Okutepa, SAN The Supreme Court of Nigeria, established under Section 230(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), is the apex court in the nation’s judicial hierarchy. Its composition, as prescribed by Section 230(2) of…
For years, claimants have pursued individual police officers for damages, but the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in CBN v. Ochife (2025) LCER-51001(SC) has reshaped police litigation in Nigeria. The decision reinforces the need to sue the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and Police Service Commission (PSC) instead, ensuring enforceable judgments. Find out how this ruling affects pending cases and the best legal strategies moving forward.
By Levi I. Shaapera.* Many years ago, in the great animal kingdom, there ruled a leader named Ikyu. His reign was marked by harsh, oppressive, and dictatorial rule. One of his most feared decrees was that no one should engage in any form of argument, be it public or private. A nearly impossible law to…