Public Interest & Advocacy

Sambo Muritala & Co

Public Interest & Advocacy – Strategic Litigation and Social Justice Cases

Public interest litigation is the lifeblood of Sambo Muritala & Co (Activist Chamber). We firmly believe that the law should serve as an instrument of social transformation, empowering communities and advancing justice for marginalized groups. Our advocacy in this area extends beyond representing individual clients—we pursue cases and campaigns that impact society at large.
Our public interest practice has focused on issues such as environmental justice, electoral integrity, freedom of information, anti-corruption, gender equality, and access to basic services. We have initiated and supported actions compelling government agencies to be more transparent in their operations, challenging unconstitutional policies, and defending citizens against systemic injustice.

One of our key involvements was in a community rights case where residents were threatened with displacement due to a government-backed development project. We intervened by filing a public interest suit that compelled the authorities to provide adequate resettlement and compensation, thereby safeguarding the community’s livelihood and heritage.
Our strategic litigation approach ensures that every case we take not only resolves a dispute but also sets a legal precedent or sparks policy reform. For example, we have taken up cases involving unlawful restrictions on freedom of assembly, where our successful arguments helped reaffirm citizens’ right to peaceful protest. Similarly, we have pursued judicial review actions challenging arbitrary government decisions, thereby strengthening accountability.

Beyond the courtroom, our advocacy includes policy engagement and community sensitization. We organize legal awareness programs, publish position papers on governance reforms, and collaborate with civil society groups to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. In partnership with NGOs, we have trained youth and women leaders on their constitutional rights, enabling them to engage with governance structures more effectively.
Our activist orientation also drives us to accept pro bono cases in matters of significant public interest. Whether defending journalists against intimidation, protecting communities from environmental degradation, or challenging discriminatory practices, we are relentless in our pursuit of justice.

Core services:
• Strategic/impact litigation & amicus briefs
• Law-reform submissions & policy advocacy
• Pro bono legal clinics & legal literacy programmes
• Coalition building and NGO advisory

At Sambo Muritala & Co, public interest law is not charity—it is our professional responsibility. We stand as a beacon for justice, ensuring that the law works not only for the privileged but also for the vulnerable and voiceless in society.