Popular human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been arrested by the Nigeria Police at Zone 2 Command in Lagos following a defamation petition filed by Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group.
The arrest occurs amid Farotimi’s earlier claims of threats to his life, allegedly orchestrated by influential elite figures in collaboration with security agencies and legal professionals.
In a statement titled “They Want to Silence Me”, Farotimi disclosed that he received an official invitation to report to the Zone 2 Command on November 13, 2024. Upon his arrival, he was confronted with a petition accusing him of making defamatory remarks against Elumelu.
While dismissing the accusations as unfounded, Farotimi formally addressed the allegations during his visit.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism. Nigerian activist and politician Omoyele Sowore publicly condemned the arrest on his X (formerly Twitter) account, demanding Farotimi’s immediate release.
Sowore wrote, “Dele Farotimi has been arrested by the Nigeria Police Force over a petition from Tony Elumelu alleging defamation. The police must not be used as a tool for settling personal disputes. We, the citizens, will no longer tolerate such misuse of the institution. Barrister Farotimi must be released immediately.”
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the intersection of power, influence, and law enforcement in Nigeria.
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