Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denounced the arrest of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, warning it signals a dangerous regression into authoritarian rule. Farotimi’s detention, linked to allegations of defamation and cyberstalking, has sparked national outrage.
“This arrest is a chilling reminder of Nigeria’s dark days under military dictatorship,” Atiku said on Wednesday. “Using police forces to silence dissent undermines our democracy and suppresses free expression.”
The accusations against Farotimi stem from claims made in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where he alleged misconduct by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Afe Babalola. Police spokespersons offered conflicting statements on the arrest, but the Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State confirmed the detention, citing established charges of defamation and cyberstalking.
An Ekiti Chief Magistrates Court ordered Farotimi’s remand at a state correctional facility. This sparked condemnation from opposition leaders and civil rights activists. Atiku criticized the use of state machinery in handling defamation cases, emphasizing that such matters belong in civil court.
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“In 2019, I faced defamation but sought redress through the judiciary, not through police intimidation,” Atiku stated. “Democracy flourishes when free speech is respected, not suppressed.”
Atiku called for Farotimi’s immediate release, labeling his detention “an appalling abuse of power” by the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The former vice president warned that repeated incidents of state overreach risk transforming Nigeria into a one-party state.
Human rights advocate Omoyele Sowore also condemned the arrest, sharing the news on his social media. “This is more than an arrest; it’s an abduction of democratic principles,” he wrote.
Atiku urged the government to adhere to constitutional values. “Freedom of speech is a right, not a privilege. Misusing police resources to settle personal scores harms the credibility of our democratic institutions,” he said.
Farotimi’s detention has ignited discussions nationwide, with activists and citizens rallying against perceived threats to free expression. As Nigeria grapples with rising tensions, calls for protecting democratic values are growing louder.
