At Smith & Partners LP, we are staunch defenders of civil liberties, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. Our constitutional and human rights law practice is driven by a deep commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of individual dignity. We represent clients in matters involving unlawful detention, freedom of expression and assembly, discrimination, police brutality, violations of due process, and other infringements on constitutionally guaranteed rights.

We advise both individuals and civil society organizations on their rights under the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and international human rights instruments. Our approach combines strategic litigation, legal advocacy, and policy engagement to promote systemic change and empower victims of rights violations.

One of our partners was part of a legal team that challenged the indefinite detention of protestors arrested during a peaceful assembly in Abuja. The case set a precedent for the judicial affirmation of citizens’ right to protest, and the Federal High Court ordered their immediate release and awarded damages.

We are currently representing a group of women who were arbitrarily arrested and profiled during a security sweep in a major Nigerian city. Our firm filed a fundamental rights enforcement action on their behalf, challenging the violation of their right to dignity, freedom from discrimination, and personal liberty.

Our firm recently advised a human rights non-profit on structuring a strategic litigation campaign to address extrajudicial killings and torture by law enforcement agencies. This involved coordinating with international partners, filing public interest lawsuits, and drafting policy papers advocating for police reforms.

A partner in our firm was involved in the legal representation of an individual whose passport was unlawfully seized by a government agency without due process. The litigation led to the issuance of a judicial order mandating the release of the passport and a declaration affirming the constitutional right to freedom of movement.

We also provide advisory services to legislators and public institutions seeking to improve the legal framework for the protection of human rights in Nigeria. Our team contributed to a human rights impact assessment for a proposed data surveillance bill, ensuring it complied with international civil liberty standards.

At Smith & Partners LP, we do more than just litigate—we advocate, advise, and reform. Our expertise in constitutional and human rights law reflects our unwavering dedication to defending the rights of individuals, holding institutions accountable, and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework.