The Appeal Court in Abuja has awarded the sum of N2.5 million as damages to human rights lawyer, Nkereuwem Akpan against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The unanimous decision of the appellate court, which was delivered on August 14, also ordered the EFCC to render a public apology.

Akpan challenged his arrest and detention in February 2009 on allegations of corruption.

The Appeal Court upheld the provision of of Section 35(6) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As amended) which section succinctly provides as follows:

“Any person who is unlawfully arrested or detained SHALL be entitled to compensation and public apology from the appropriate authority or person.”

The Nigeria Lawyer