In a development stirring nationwide reactions, the Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the arrest of Dele Farotimi, a well-known human rights advocate. His arrest follows allegations of defamation and cyberbullying based on a petition received by the police.
Police Confirm Arrest and Legal Process
Sunday Abutu, the Ekiti police spokesperson, revealed that Farotimi’s arrest was executed with a valid court warrant. “The arrest was carried out after obtaining a legal warrant. The complaint involves defamation of character and cyberbullying,” Abutu stated. However, he did not disclose the identity of the petitioner. Farotimi is currently being transported from Lagos to Ekiti State for further investigations.
Legal Reactions: Falana Condemns Arrest
Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), condemned Farotimi’s arrest, calling it illegal. Falana emphasized that defamation has been decriminalized in Lagos and Edo States, citing a Supreme Court ruling.
“The arrest is baseless, considering Lagos State decriminalized defamation in 2011. The Supreme Court upheld this in the Aviomoh v Commissioner of Police case,” Falana said. He demanded Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, arguing that his detention violated legal provisions.
Peter Obi Decries Misuse of Power
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, also criticized the arrest. In a statement on his social media platform, Obi described the incident as a “misuse of police power and an assault on democracy.”
“This arrest is a direct attack on freedom of expression. It sends a dangerous message to all Nigerians who value accountability and transparency,” Obi remarked. Drawing from personal experiences of defamation, Obi stated that he never resorted to police action to silence critics.
He urged the police to prioritize their duty to the Constitution and the Nigerian people, stressing the importance of protecting democratic values. “I call for Dele Farotimi’s immediate release. The police must remember their allegiance lies with the Constitution, not with those in power,” Obi concluded.
Broader Implications and Democratic Concerns
The arrest of Dele Farotimi has sparked widespread discussions about freedom of speech, police powers, and the right to dissent in Nigeria. Human rights advocates, political leaders, and legal experts warn that incidents like this could undermine democratic principles and discourage critical voices from holding authorities accountable.
As Farotimi’s case unfolds, the legal community and civil rights groups will likely continue pressing for his release. The broader public discourse will also focus on the implications of this arrest for free speech and justice in Nigeria.
