The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been ordered to pay ₦1.12 billion in compensation to the family of a man who was killed by one of its drivers. A court ruling found the electoral body liable for the incident, which occurred when the driver, reportedly acting within the scope of his duties, caused the fatal accident.
According to court documents, the victim was hit by a vehicle belonging to INEC, leading to his untimely death. The deceased’s family subsequently filed a lawsuit, demanding justice and compensation for their loss. The court ruled in their favor, citing negligence on the part of the driver and holding INEC responsible as his employer.
The judgment has sparked public reactions, with some applauding the court for ensuring justice, while others question whether INEC should bear full financial responsibility. Legal experts note that under the principle of vicarious liability, employers can be held accountable for the actions of their employees if those actions occur within the scope of their work.
INEC has yet to release an official statement on the ruling, but sources within the commission suggest it may consider an appeal. Meanwhile, the victim’s family has expressed relief at the court’s decision, stating that while no amount of money can replace their loved one, the compensation will help them cope with the loss.
As legal proceedings conclude, the case has drawn attention to the responsibilities of government agencies in ensuring their employees adhere to safety regulations. Advocacy groups have called for stricter enforcement of road safety policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
