A Bureau De Change operator, Suleiman Sani, has initiated a fundamental rights enforcement lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged unlawful arrest, torture, and detention without trial.
Filed on Friday, the suit seeks an order for the EFCC to pay N200 million in general damages and N1 billion in exemplary damages for the reported violation of Sani’s fundamental rights.
Under Section 46 of the 1999 Constitution, the applicant also demands a court order for the EFCC to issue an unreserved public apology for infringing on his rights.
In a detailed affidavit, it is disclosed that Sani has been held in EFCC custody in Ikoyi, Lagos, since June 1, 2024, following an invitation from the agency. According to the affidavit, Sani complied with the EFCC’s summons and provided explanations regarding transactions tied to his Bureau De Change business. However, he was informed that his responses were unsatisfactory, resulting in his detention without being given details of any charges against him.
The affidavit reveals that Sani has not been charged with any criminal offense since his arrest. Owing to poor sanitary conditions in custody, Sani developed a painful abscess and subsequently high blood pressure, receiving no medical attention despite his pleas.
The document highlights that Sani’s detention has shuttered his business for over 150 days, causing significant financial losses. As the family’s primary provider, his incarceration has led to his children being unable to attend school and has deeply affected his elderly mother’s wellbeing.
Sani’s legal representatives argue that his continued detention without trial is a blatant violation of his fundamental rights to life and liberty. He seeks urgent judicial intervention for his release, compensation for the damages suffered, and a formal public apology from the EFCC.
