Fatshimetrie, an iconic space for civic expression and democratic debate, recently witnessed a significant judicial decision. The judge made the decision following an application filed by Dr. Ogwu Onoja SAN on behalf of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). During the hearing, none of the 12 defendants were present in court nor were they represented by counsel.
The defendants in the case are: Omoyele Sowore, Damilare Adenola, Adama Ukpabi, Tosin Harsogba, unidentified persons, the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police. Other parties include the Director General of the State Security Service, the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps, as well as the Chiefs of Staff of the Army, Air Force and Navy.
However, counsel for the TCF Minister drew the judge’s attention to a statement by Damilare Adenola where she threatened to extend the protests nationwide beyond the initial 10 days.
Onoja SAN argued that since the respondents were not present in court and no one knew their next moves, it would be wise to extend the order to ensure that the peace of the TCF was not unfairly disturbed.
In a brief ruling, the judge granted the application and confirmed that the July 31 order remained valid and in force. Oriji also ordered that the respondents be notified of the hearing date before the next adjournment date, which was set for August 22 to hear the motion on notice.
In his July 31 ruling, Justice Oriji acknowledged the protesters’ right to stage protests but limited them to the stadium, given the legitimate concerns expressed by the Minister.
In this atmosphere of restricted demonstrations, Fatshimetrie, as a symbolic place for citizen movements, positions itself as a space where debate can flourish in compliance with established rules. This is where the voice of the people is heard, in compliance with the laws and the safety of all.
At the heart of this case is a delicate balance between the right to free expression and peaceful protest, and the need to guarantee public safety and avoid any serious disruption of social order.
The role of the judicial authorities and government bodies is therefore crucial to ensure a fair and balanced democratic process, where the fundamental rights of everyone are respected and protected. Fatshimetrie, as a place of meeting and debate, reflects these issues in a tangible way, offering a structured space for dialogue and discussion for the different voices of society.