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By Oscar Okhifo
The embattled National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Atiku Abubakar Isah, has dragged President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) to court, accusing them of unlawful arrest, torture, and prolonged illegal detention.
In a lawsuit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/966/2025), Isah is seeking ₦38.3 billion in total damages, comprising ₦32.87 billion in general damages and ₦5.5 billion in exemplary damages. The case stems from what he describes as a politically motivated plot to oust him from office through a rival faction within NANS allegedly enjoying the backing of Seyi Tinubu.
Isah said he was abducted from The Wells Carlton Hotel in Abuja by men linked to the rival faction, who brutally assaulted him, stabbing and beating him severely, resulting in significant bodily harm and heavy blood loss. Following the attack, he alleges that he was handed over to DSS operatives who kept him incommunicado for weeks, denying him access to his family, legal counsel, and medical care.
According to court documents, Isah was subjected to severe torture, including prolonged starvation, and was coerced to recant earlier public allegations against Seyi Tinubu and the rival faction. He claims the DSS pressured him to withdraw statements alleging that the faction had offered him a ₦100 million bribe to support their bid for leadership recognition.
In addition to financial compensation, Isah is requesting the court to order his immediate and unconditional release and to grant a permanent injunction barring the DSS, Seyi Tinubu, and their agents from further arresting, detaining, or harassing him.
Isah also accuses the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) of broadcasting defamatory content aimed at discrediting him and justifying his arrest, further damaging his public image.
The case has thrown fresh light on the escalating leadership crisis within NANS, with growing concerns about alleged political interference and power struggles tied to powerful interests close to the presidency.
As at the time of filing this report, neither Seyi Tinubu, the DSS, nor NTA had issued any public response to the serious allegations. Meanwhile, Isah’s family continues to express deep concern for his safety and well-being.
The Federal High Court is expected to commence hearings on the matter in the coming weeks.
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