Table of Contents
- Court Order
- Details of the Lawsuit
- Judgment Delivered
- Reaction from Legal Experts
- Significance of the Ruling
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has mandated one Sunday Dominic to pay the Department of State Services (DSS) ₦5 million as punitive costs for initiating what was deemed a frivolous fundamental rights enforcement suit against the secret police.
In a case identified as FCT/HC/CV/3984/2024, Dominic claimed that the DSS summoned him for questioning and threatened his arrest over alleged fraudulent activities—actions he argued infringed upon his fundamental rights to life, dignity, and personal liberty. He also sought ₦10 million in damages from the agency.
However, in delivering the ruling, Justice A. Y. Shafa determined that the applicant failed to demonstrate any violation of his rights. After examining Dominic’s claims alongside the DSS’s counter-affidavit, the judge concluded that the assertions were unfounded and lacked merit.
As a result, the court dismissed the suit and ordered the applicant to pay ₦5 million to the DSS as punitive costs.
In response to the ruling, a senior attorney praised the decision, stating that it reinforces the authority of security agencies to perform their duties without undue interference.
“This ruling strengthens the principle that security agencies should be allowed to fulfill their lawful responsibilities without the threat of frivolous lawsuits,” he remarked.
“If investigators are unable to summon suspects or witnesses for questioning, their ability to protect national security and uphold the law would be significantly compromised,” he added.
According to him, the verdict sends a powerful message to deter groundless lawsuits that could hinder the operations of security agencies and undermine the administration of justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ruling of the High Court regarding Sunday Dominic's lawsuit?
The High Court ordered Sunday Dominic to pay ₦5 million to the DSS as punitive costs for filing a frivolous fundamental rights enforcement suit, which was dismissed by the court.
What were the allegations made by Sunday Dominic against the DSS?
Sunday Dominic alleged that the DSS invited him for questioning and threatened his arrest over suspected fraudulent activities, claiming these actions violated his fundamental rights.
What was the reaction of legal experts to the court's decision?
Legal experts commended the court's decision, emphasizing that it affirms the authority of security agencies to operate without facing frivolous litigation.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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