Attack on Free Speech or Justice Served? Atiku Demands Immediate Release of Dele Farotimi

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic twist that has sparked national outrage, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the arrest of human rights advocate Dele Farotimi, calling for his immediate release. Farotimi, known for his bold critiques of government policies, was taken into custody by Ekiti State police on allegations of defamation and cyberbullying.

The activist’s arrest, which took place at his Lagos office, quickly escalated into a heated debate about the state of free speech in Nigeria. Farotimi, transported to Ekiti State under an arrest warrant, decried the police action as an attempted abduction.

A Controversial Detention

Ekiti police spokesperson Sunday Abutu confirmed the detention, explaining it stemmed from a petition filed against Farotimi. The activist, however, argued that the charges arose from comments in his book published in Lagos, raising questions about the jurisdiction of the case.

Farotimi had previously cooperated with Lagos police regarding similar allegations but expressed alarm at the “brazen nature” of his arrest, accusing authorities of abuse of power.

Atiku’s Fierce Rebuttal

Reacting swiftly, Atiku took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize the arrest, likening it to the oppressive tactics of Nigeria’s military past. “The arrest and detention of lawyer and human rights advocate, @DeleFarotimi, is unequivocally condemned,” Atiku stated.

He described the police involvement in a defamation case as an excessive use of force, remarking that such disputes should be resolved in court rather than through law enforcement.

“This alarming trend is emblematic of this administration’s insidious agenda to suffocate the fundamental right to free expression,” Atiku added. “The aim is clear: to intimidate and harass citizens, particularly those who oppose the regime.”

A Larger Fight for Free Speech

Atiku underscored how such arrests erode democratic principles, pointing out that freedom of speech and association are constitutionally guaranteed rights. He drew from his own experience, referencing a defamation case he handled through the courts rather than involving law enforcement.

“It is an appalling abuse of power to use the police as a tool for personal vendettas,” he said. “I call for the immediate and unconditional release of Dele Farotimi.”

Broader Implications

Farotimi’s arrest is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling pattern of crackdowns on dissent, critics argue. Activists warn that such actions threaten Nigeria’s democratic fabric, turning law enforcement into a weapon for suppressing opposition voices.

What’s Next?

As the controversy unfolds, the spotlight remains on the Ekiti State police and the broader implications for free speech in Nigeria. Farotimi’s detention has galvanized calls for reform, with many demanding that the Tinubu administration address concerns over human rights abuses.

For now, the nation watches, waiting to see if Farotimi’s case will set a precedent — for justice or for silence.