Dawn Zuokumor
A coalition of Nigerians, both at home and abroad, is preparing to stage protests on December 10, 2024, in a united demand for justice, press freedom, and the repeal of restrictive laws.
This was disclosed in a post on X by Omoyele Sowore, a politician, human rights activist and publisher.
The movement, gaining traction under hashtags like #FreeDeleFarotimi, #PressFreedom, and #RepealCyberCrimeAct, comes in response to the recent arrest of human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi.
Farotimi, known for his outspoken criticism of government policies and his advocacy for human rights, was detained on charges related to cybercrime laws. His supporters argue that the charges are politically motivated, aimed at silencing dissenting voices and curbing press freedom.
His arrest has sparked outrage across the nation, with many accusing the judiciary of being complicit in stifling free speech.
The protests are scheduled to take place at key locations:
Lagos: Afe Babalola Chambers
Abuja: Federal Ministry of Justice
Ekiti: Police Headquarters, Ado-Ekiti
London: King’s College Campus
Organizers emphasize that the protests are peaceful and aim to draw global attention to the state of justice in Nigeria.
Quoting Martin Luther King, Jr., they remind participants: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
The protesters hope to highlight the urgent need for judicial reform and the protection of civil liberties in Nigeria.
With growing support, the movement underscores the determination of Nigerians to resist censorship and demand accountability.