The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has awarded N10 million in general damages against the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the physical assault, unlawful arrest, and seizure of property belonging to Jide Oyekunle, a journalist with Independent Newspaper.

The landmark ruling in Suit No. ECW/CCJ/APP/29/25 was secured by Avocats Sans Frontières France (Lawyers Without Borders France) on June 22, 2026, under its eRIGHTS project, supported by the European Union, which focuses on defending human rights in the digital space.

Oyekunle, the secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Federal Capital Territory, was physically assaulted and unlawfully detained. His camera was damaged, and his mobile phone was seized by armed police officers on the order of the former FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, at Eagle Square, Abuja, on August 1, 2024, while he was covering the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests.

The Court agreed with Counsel to the applicant, Collins I. Maidoh-Anene, Esq., that the Nigerian police’s detention of the journalist and seizure of his mobile phone were excessive, unjustified, and in violation of international law.

The ECOWAS Court subsequently found the Federal Republic of Nigeria liable for violating the applicant’s rights to freedom of expression, personal liberty, dignity, and property under the African Charter.

The Court therefore ordered the Nigerian government to pay Mr Oyekunle the sum of N10 million in general damages.

The court found that Nigeria’s actions suppressed his live coverage, thereby breaching his right to freedom of expression under Article 9 of the African Charter.

It also ruled that the assault and detention violated his rights to personal liberty, human dignity, and freedom from degrading treatment under Articles 6 and 5, while the temporary seizure of his phone violated his right to property under Article 14.

The Court further held that Nigeria’s justification failed the test of necessity under international law, making the conduct of the security forces excessive and unlawful.

In a statement signed by the country director of Avocats Sans Frontières France, Angela Uwandu Uzoma-Iwuchukwu, on Tuesday, said the judgment sends a clear message that a journalist’s digital tools are extensions of the modern press and newsroom and that their arbitrary confiscation by security forces constitutes a direct assault on the public’s right to know.

According to Angela, “The court’s pronouncement adds to the growing jurisprudence from the regional court protecting journalists and human rights defenders who document protests and public interest events.

“ASF France will continue to monitor compliance with the judgment and provide legal aid to journalists facing similar violations.

“For Avocats Sans Frontières France and the eRIGHTS project partners, this ruling strengthens legal protections for journalism in the digital age. It shields reporters from tech-based censorship and intimidation, puts security agencies on notice that targeting media practitioners during protests will attract accountability, and reaffirms the ECOWAS Court as a vital shield for civic space in the region.”

Jide Oyekunle, while reacting to the landmark judgment, described it as a significant affirmation that journalists have the right to carry out their constitutional duties without intimidation, harassment, or attack.

He stated that democracy cannot thrive where journalists are attacked for documenting events or where citizens are punished for exercising their lawful rights.

He said, “The decision of the ECOWAS Court is not only about me; it is about every journalist, media worker, and Nigerian citizen who believes in the right to freedom of expression, access to information, and peaceful civic participation.

“This judgment sends a clear message that security agencies and government institutions must be held accountable when they violate fundamental rights.

“Because if democracy is all about good governance, accountability, and transparency, then press freedom should not be curtailed, denied, or restricted.”

Oyekunle appreciated everyone who stood by him throughout the journey, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council, Avocats Sans Frontières France, colleagues and rights advocates, and all Nigerians who continue to defend press freedom and democratic values.

Lionel Messi has opened up on retirement rumours as he celebrates his 39th birthday.

The Argentine legend has attracted attention , especially at the ongoing 2026 World Cup in North America, where he has been outstanding, contributing five goals in just two games for the defending champions.

Despite persistent reports suggesting he could retire from professional football within the next year, Messi has quickly dispelled those rumours with a clear and positive message about his future.

When asked if he intends to keep playing for a few more years, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner replied:
“Yes, yes… I will continue for some time, as long as I can contribute, feel good physically, and help my teammates… I will keep playing.”

At 39, Messi remains the heartbeat of Argentina, combining sublime vision, creativity, and clinical finishing that seems to improve with each passing year.

Messi may have lost some pace and agility as he enters the twilight of a sublime career, but his performances at the World Cup so far, suggest he is still able to carry Argentina as far as possible.

Legendary Portuguese tactician Jose Mourinho has opened up on his decision to return to Real Madrid as head coach.

The 63-year-old, who was officially announced as Los Blancos manager, admitted that his deep emotional connection to the club was the main driving force behind his comeback.

“I love Real Madrid, and this is the reason why I’m coming back. I don’t deny it,” Mourinho told reporters.

This will be Mourinho’s second spell at the Bernabéu. During his first stint between 2010 and 2013, he delivered success, winning the La Liga title with a record 100 points, along with the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup.

“I love Real Madrid, and this is the reason why I’m coming back. I don’t deny it”.
Since leaving Madrid in 2013, Mourinho has had a expansive coaching career.

He returned to Chelsea (where he won another Premier League title), followed by spells at Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma (where he won the Europa Conference League), Fenerbahçe, and most recently Benfica.

He now returns to a Real Madrid squad that has endured two consecutive trophyless seasons, a rare drought for the Spanish giants.

Despite the challenge ahead, Mourinho insists his love for the club outweighs any difficulties.

The self-proclaimed “Special One” will begin his second chapter at the club with pre-season in July, aiming to restore Real Madrid’s dominance both domestically and in Europe.