The Court of Appeal in Enugu has delivered a significant ruling in the case of Appeal No. CA/E/2023: STATE SECURITY SERVICE VS. STEPHEN EGWUATU. The court declared the detention of Mr. Stephen Egwuatu to be unlawful and a violation of his fundamental rights.
On July 4, 2023, the Enugu State High Court declared Mr. Egwuatu’s arrest and detention unlawful, describing the act as a gross violation of his fundamental rights.
In response, human rights lawyer and counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, emphasized that it was important to note that Stephen was only 12 years old at the time of his arrest and detention. Sir Ejiofor stated that although Stephen was arrested on November 8, 2021, and released on November 11, 2021, the court strongly condemned the actions of the SSS for unlawfully arresting and detaining an innocent minor.
The court also awarded a cost of 5 million naira against the SSS.
However, the SSS, through the Enugu State Ministry of Justice, appealed the judgment.
On March 27, 2025, the Court of Appeal, Enugu Division, delivered a unanimous ruling, dismissing the appeal as unmeritorious.
Hon. Justice Abdul-Azeez Waziri (JCA), who read the lead judgment, upheld the High Court’s decision and reaffirmed the punitive cost awarded against the SSS.
“We give all glory and adoration to God Almighty for this resounding victory. Justice has once again prevailed. The enforcement of this judgment will be pursued to its fullest extent.”he said.