Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has denounced the arrest of lawyer and human rights advocate Dele Farotimi, calling it an alarming assault on fundamental freedoms. Atiku described the arrest as a dangerous echo of Nigeria’s military past, where dissent was brutally silenced.
Atiku Slams Government Overreach
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Atiku condemned the Tinubu administration’s use of law enforcement in what he termed a purely civil matter of defamation. He likened the situation to wielding excessive force for a minor issue.
“Detaining Dele Farotimi harks back to the dark days of military rule, where any form of dissent was met with brutal force,” Atiku said. “Defamation should not involve the police—it’s a civil matter. This is akin to using a sledgehammer to crush a fly.”
Accusations of Intimidation and Agenda-Driven Actions
Atiku accused the government of pursuing a deliberate agenda to stifle critics and silence opposition voices. He warned that these actions undermine Nigeria’s democracy and pave the way for authoritarianism.
“This administration’s actions against Farotimi are part of a disturbing pattern of intimidation aimed at citizens and the media,” Atiku asserted. “Such tactics contradict democratic values and push Nigeria towards a one-party state.”
Calls for Respecting Democratic Rights
Drawing from his personal experience, Atiku highlighted how he pursued legal action in a defamation case in 2019 without involving the police. He emphasized that freedom of speech and association are constitutional rights, not privileges.
“If someone feels wronged by defamatory remarks, the courts—not the police—are the proper channels for redress,” he said. Atiku urged the government to respect these rights and called for Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release.
Broader Outrage Over Farotimi’s Arrest
Farotimi’s arrest has sparked widespread criticism from activists, civil society groups, and political leaders. Many see it as part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Nigeria. Atiku’s statement joins a growing chorus of voices condemning the government’s perceived disregard for democratic norms and human rights.
Conclusion
The arrest of Dele Farotimi is emerging as a flashpoint in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to protect democratic freedoms. As calls for his release grow louder, the government faces mounting pressure to demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting constitutional rights.
