Farotimi’s Arrest is a Grim Reminder of Nigeria’s Military-Era Tyranny – Atiku
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the arrest and detention of lawyer and human rights advocate Dele Farotimi, describing it as a grim throwback to the oppressive tactics of Nigeria’s military dictatorship.
Atiku called the situation an “appalling abuse of power” that directly contradicts democratic principles.
“The arrest and detention of Dele Farotimi is unequivocally condemned,” Atiku declared in a statement on Wednesday. “It serves as a grim reminder of the dark days of military dictatorship when the iron fist of tyranny sought to crush all dissent.”
Farotimi, a prominent activist, was accused of defamation, an offense Atiku insisted does not warrant police intervention.
“Defamation, under normal circumstances, should not involve law enforcement,” he said. “The Police’s intervention in such matters is nothing less than the use of a sledgehammer to swat a fly, an overreach of unimaginable proportions.”
Also Read: Why the Arrest of Dele Farotimi Is Unlawful According to Lagos Laws – NBA
Farotimi’s arrest came hours after he released a statement on Tuesday alleging a plan by authorities to silence him.
On Wednesday, he was arraigned in Ado Ekiti, where a judge denied him bail and remanded him in prison until December 10. The case has sparked outrage from human rights groups and prominent Nigerians.
Atiku linked the arrest to a broader strategy by the Tinubu administration to stifle dissent and suppress fundamental freedoms.
“This alarming trend, particularly the recent abduction—or rather, arrest—of Dele Farotimi, is emblematic of this administration’s insidious agenda to suffocate the fundamental right to free expression,” he said.
The former Vice President warned that such actions could erode the nation’s democracy.
“The aim is clear: to intimidate and harass citizens, particularly those who oppose the regime, thus paving the way for the establishment of a one-party state.”
In calling for Farotimi’s immediate release, Atiku emphasised the importance of upholding constitutional rights.
“Freedom of speech and association are not privileges but constitutionally enshrined rights. If anyone feels wronged by defamatory words, they are free to seek redress in the courts, not at the hands of the state’s enforcers.”
He also criticized the misuse of state power for personal vendettas, referencing his own experience.
“In 2019, I was defamed. I did not involve the Police to flex muscles and intimidate the defaming citizen, but I took the case to court where I am currently seeking relief for the injuries to my name and integrity.”
Atiku’s statement joins a growing chorus of calls for justice in Farotimi’s case, with many Nigerians expressing concern over what they perceive as a dangerous erosion of democratic values under the current administration.
