Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has condemned the arrest and harassment of human rights lawyer, Mr. Dele Farotimi, over allegations of defamation.
Obi expressed his disapproval of the action in a post on his X handle, describing the arrest as a “gross misuse of police powers” and a “grave assault on the principles of democracy.”
Obi called for Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, stating that the arrest represented an attempt to intimidate those who oppose authority and a dangerous signal to Nigerians who value freedom of expression and demand accountability.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Police Force should be focused on protecting citizens’ rights rather than suppressing them.
Obi pointed out that defamation is a civil matter that should be resolved through the legal process in accordance with democratic principles, not through police intervention.
The former governor shared his personal experience, noting that he too has been defamed, insulted, and lied about, but has never used the police to silence his critics. He urged those who feel defamed to seek redress through proper legal channels, not by abusing police powers or weaponizing authority.
Obi further stated that the police’s involvement in such cases raises concerns about their independence and professionalism as a civil force. He reiterated his call for Farotimi’s immediate release and urged the police to uphold their duty to the Constitution and the Nigerian people, rather than serving narrow interests of those in power.
“This action”, Obi said, “is a gross misuse of police powers and a grave assault on the principles of democracy and justice in Nigeria.
“I condemn this action in totality. It represents not only an attempt to intimidate opposing voices from questioning authority .
“It is also a worrying signal to every Nigerian who loves and values freedom of expression and dares to demand accountability and transparency”.
Obi continued “As a private citizen, former governor, and even today, I am frequently defamed, insulted, and lied about and against. Yet, I have never resorted to using the Nigerian police or filing reports to silence others.
“Those who feel otherwise should seek redress through the proper legal channels, not by weaponizing the police or abusing their access to authority or state power”.