**Lagos Court Awards ₦30m to Omoyele Sowore Over Unlawful Police Declaration** In a significant ruling, the Federal High Court in Lagos has declared that the Nigeria Police Force overstepped its bounds by declaring human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, wanted. The presiding judge, Justice Musa Kakaaki, delivered the judgment on Friday, February 20, stating that the police action was a blatant abuse of power and a gross violation of constitutional provisions. The court's verdict comes as a victory for Sowore, who has been a thorn in the side of the government for his fearless criticism and activism. The judge made it clear that no Nigerian citizen can be criminalised for exercising their right to free speech, peaceful protest, or for holding those in power accountable. This ruling sends a strong message to the authorities that they cannot silence citizens who dare to speak truth to power. The court's displeasure with the actions of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, was evident in the judgment. Justice Kakaaki described the commissioner's actions as "lawless" and held the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, responsible for the misconduct carried out under his command. The judge emphasised that a person can only be declared wanted after a valid court-issued warrant, proper notice, and credible evidence that the individual is deliberately evading the law. In a shocking revelation, the court also ruled that a warning issued by Commissioner Jimoh on October 27, 2025, directing Sowore to stay away from Lagos State, was arbitrary, unconstitutional, and beyond the lawful powers of the police. This ruling has significant implications for the police and the government, as it highlights the need for accountability and respect for the rule of law in Nigeria. The court's award of ₦30 million in damages against the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police is a testament to the seriousness of the allegations. This ruling serves as a reminder that the government and its agencies must act within the bounds of the law and respect the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens.