The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the arrest of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, calling it a gross misuse of police power and a threat to democracy in Nigeria.
Farotimi was arrested on Tuesday by officers of the Zone 2 Command in Lagos following a defamation petition filed by an unidentified complainant. The petition accuses Farotimi of making damaging remarks during a public forum, which allegedly defamed the complainant’s character.
Reacting to the arrest via a post on his X handle, Obi decried the development as an attempt to stifle freedom of expression and silence dissenting voices.
“This action is a gross misuse of police powers and a grave assault on the principles of democracy and justice in Nigeria,” Obi wrote.
“Defamation, by its nature, is a civil matter that should be addressed in court through due legal process, in line with the rule of law in a democracy.”
The former governor highlighted his personal experiences with defamation, emphasizing that he had never resorted to involving the police to suppress criticism. Instead, Obi urged those who feel defamed to seek legal redress through the courts.
“The Nigeria Police Force exists to protect the rights of citizens, not to suppress them. Weaponizing the police to intimidate individuals reeks of abuse of power,” he stated, adding that the action undermines the independence and professionalism expected of the police as a civil force.
Farotimi, a vocal advocate for human rights and governance reform, has been outspoken about systemic challenges in Nigeria. He has also previously alleged threats to his life from influential elites working in concert with security agencies.
Obi concluded his statement by calling for Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release.
“The police must recognize that their allegiance is to the Constitution and the people of Nigeria, not to narrow interests at the behest of those in power,” he added.
Farotimi’s arrest has sparked widespread concern, with activists and civil society groups questioning the use of the police to settle what they believe should be civil disputes.
The case continues to draw attention as Nigerians demand greater accountability from authorities in upholding democratic principles.