A Rivers State High Court has awarded N150 million in damages against Saipem Construction Company in a fundamental human rights case filed by Ernest Omuso-Ibimo, who was unlawfully detained at the company's base in Rumuolumeni, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area.
The applicant had sought N250 million in damages, alleging that on November 29, Saipem and five other respondents detained and restricted him within the company premises located along Akar Road. During this detention, Omuso-Ibimo claimed he was only provided with the company's food and beverages, denied access to meals of his choice despite his health condition.
Court Rejects Company's Justification
In a comprehensive judgment spanning over forty pages delivered on Wednesday, Justice Stephen Jumbo thoroughly evaluated the evidence and exhibits presented before the court. The judge ruled that Saipem Construction Company had indeed violated Omuso-Ibimo's fundamental human rights and right to personal liberty.
BenriNews reports that Justice Jumbo noted the construction company did not deny the detention allegations in its affidavit and address but merely attempted to justify the act—justifications which the court deemed "untenable and unjustifiable."
Judgment Details
The court declared the detention and restriction of Ernest Omuso-Ibimo unconstitutional and a clear breach of his fundamental rights. Justice Jumbo ordered Saipem Construction to:
- Issue a formal apology to the applicant
- Pay N150 million as damages
- Pay an additional N1 million as costs
This case highlights the growing trend of Nigerian courts holding corporations accountable for human rights violations, reinforcing the constitutional protections afforded to citizens regardless of corporate interests.
The judgment serves as a reminder that companies operating in Nigeria must respect fundamental human rights and follow due process in their dealings with individuals, whether employees, contractors, or visitors to their premises.
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