Peter Obi Reacts As Dele Farotomi Is Remanded In Prison

The former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has frowned at the remand of Human Rights Attorney and activist, Dele Farotimi, in prison.

Naija News reported that a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti ordered Farotimi to be remanded following allegations of defaming a prominent legal figure and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.

The activist is accused of damaging the reputation of Afe Babalola through statements made in his recently released book, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.’

In a statement via his X handle, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), said the handling of Farotimi’s case runs foul of every Democratic norm that guarantees freedom of expression and innocence.

Peter Obi also berated the Nigerian Police for ignoring the barrage of crimes in the country and hastily indulging in civil cases on half complaints.

He called the authorities to ensure justice is served impartially on Farotimi’s case as well as prioritize the urgent task of combating the real threats plaguing the county.

The statement reads, “The handling of the case involving human rights lawyer @DeleFarotomi runs foul of every Democratic norm that guarantees freedom of expression and innocence until found guilty before a law court.

“It’s curious that the Nigeria Police, who are struggling with a barrage of crimes all over the place, now indulge in civil cases on half complaints and rush to court at the speed of light.

“Hearing that Dele Farotimi has been remanded in prison over an allegation of defamation is very disturbing. This development raises serious concerns about the state of justice and freedom of expression in our country, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the alarming rise in criminal activities across the nation.

“At a time when national efforts should be directed toward addressing pressing issues such as insecurity, corruption, and economic challenges, it is disheartening to see the focus shifted to cases that appear to stifle critical voices.

“Matters of defamation are civil and should be treated as such, not turned into a tool for intimidation or the erosion of fundamental rights. The strength of any democracy lies in its ability to tolerate differing opinions and uphold the rule of law without bias.

“I once again call on the authorities to ensure that justice is served impartially and to prioritize the urgent task of combating the real threats plaguing our nation.”