A legal battle has erupted at Nigeria’s Federal High Court following a lawsuit filed against the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over the arrest and prolonged detention of an Amotekun operative, Julius Ekujumi, and his wife, Modupe (Dupe) Ekujumi.
The suit, filed at the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Akure Judicial Division, seeks the enforcement of Mrs. Ekujumi’s fundamental rights after she was allegedly detained since December 10, 2025, without being charged to court.
In a statement dated February 23, 2026, the couple’s lawyer, Tope Temokun, Principal Counsel at Tope Temokun Chambers, said the legal action became necessary after repeated demands for her release were ignored.
According to the legal team, the situation escalated when Julius Ekujumi — an official of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps — was also arrested by NDLEA operatives on February 18, 2026, at his shop in Akure.
Allegations of Constitutional Violations
The lawyers argue that Mrs. Ekujumi’s continued detention without arraignment violates Sections 35 and 36 of Nigeria’s Constitution, as well as provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
They accused the anti-drug agency of attempting to justify what they described as illegal detention through media statements instead of following due legal processes.
Before the court, the applicants are seeking:
- A declaration that the arrest and detention are unconstitutional
- An order for her immediate and unconditional release
- A perpetual injunction against further harassment
- ₦100 million in exemplary damages for alleged rights violations
The legal team described the case as raising critical constitutional questions about the limits of security agencies’ powers and the protection of civil liberties.
Background to the Dispute
Julius Ekujumi is reportedly one of three Amotekun officers who had earlier led a campaign demanding formal employment letters and reforms within the corps.
His activism allegedly placed him in conflict with his superiors, who reportedly declared him and other officers wanted.
His lawyer also alleged that on December 10, 2025, a joint security team stormed his residence in the early hours and arrested his wife, who has remained in custody since then.
Earlier Rights Disputes
The case follows earlier legal actions by three suspended Amotekun officers who accused the corps leadership of intimidation, unlawful declarations, and attacks after they pushed for internal reforms.
Observers say the unfolding court battle could become a major test of accountability for security agencies and the protection of citizens’ constitutional rights in Nigeria.
The legal team has vowed to pursue the case “to its logical conclusion” until justice is secured.
