Farotimi: My Arrest Was Political Persecution
Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has announced plans to pursue legal redress against individuals and authorities responsible for his arrest and subsequent detention in connection with a defamation case that has since been withdrawn.
Farotimi, a vocal critic of Nigeria’s judicial and political systems, was arrested by police operatives in Lagos in December 2024 and transported to Ekiti State, where he was charged with defamation following the publication of his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The case was filed by renowned legal luminary, Afe Babalola (SAN).
An Ekiti Magistrate Court had ordered Farotimi’s remand for 21 days. However, the legal dispute took a turn after Babalola withdrew the complaint, effectively terminating the proceedings.
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Despite the withdrawal, Farotimi insists that the matter is not closed. Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, he declared his intention to hold those involved in his arrest accountable.
“Let me continue to reassert that I was always at peace,” Farotimi said. “But when it comes to demanding an account of those who have perverted the powers of the state in pursuit of a private cause, you can be certain of one thing: some people will account for my incarceration.”
The incident has sparked renewed debate over the misuse of state institutions in private legal disputes, particularly involving influential figures. Farotimi’s legal team is expected to outline the next steps in the coming weeks.
This development comes amid broader discussions on justice system reforms and the need to safeguard the rights of citizens against arbitrary detention.
Content Credit | Oyedepo Oluwafifedoyinsola
Image Credit | thecable.ng
