Prominent human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been arrested by officers from Zone 2 Command, Lagos, in connection with a defamation petition filed by an unnamed complainant.
The petition accuses Farotimi of making defamatory remarks during a public event, though specific details of the allegations remain undisclosed.
Farotimi, a vocal advocate for justice and good governance, has recently raised alarms about threats to his life. He accused influential elites of collaborating with security agencies and legal professionals to intimidate and silence him.
The arrest has drawn widespread reactions, with supporters and human rights advocates condemning it as a potential effort to stifle dissent. Many see this as part of a broader trend targeting outspoken voices in the country.
In response, the police have assured the public that due process will be observed as they investigate the matter.
In a statement titled “They Want to Silence Me”, the lawyer recounted receiving a police invitation on November 11, requesting his presence at Zone 2 Command on November 13 at 10:00 AM.
Accompanied by his legal counsel, Farotimi reportedly arrived at the station at 9:45 AM on the specified date.
“At the station, I was presented with a petition written by a lawyer, accusing me of defamation,” Farotimi stated. “Despite finding the petition baseless, I addressed its content.”
The arrest has sparked widespread condemnation, with prominent human rights activist Omoyele Sowore calling for Farotimi’s immediate release.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Sowore criticised the Police for allegedly serving as a tool for personal grievances.
“It is pertinent that the Nigerian Police are notified that the institution cannot continue to be used to settle personal scores.
“And we, the citizens of Nigeria, would no longer tolerate such a situation.
“Therefore, the Police at Zone 2 in Lagos are advised to release Barrister Farotimi immediately,” he wrote.
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