Democracy Under Siege: Peter Obi Condemns Dele Farotimi's Arrest Over Defamation Petition

Democracy Under Siege: Peter Obi Condemns Dele Farotimi's Arrest Over Defamation Petition

In a scathing rebuke, Peter Obi, Labour Party's presidential candidate in 2023, has denounced the arrest of his political ally, Dele Farotimi, over a defamation petition, labeling it a blatant misuse of power and an assault on Nigeria's democratic principles . Farotimi, a human rights lawyer, was taken into custody by operatives of the Ekiti State Police Command without prior notification to the Lagos State Police Command or Zone 2 Command .

Obi vehemently condemned the action, stating that it represents an attempt to intimidate opposing voices from questioning authority. He emphasized that defamation is a civil matter that should be addressed through due legal process, not by weaponizing the police or abusing state power . The former Anambra governor demanded Farotimi's immediate and unconditional release, stressing that the police must recognize their allegiance is to the constitution and the people of Nigeria, not to narrow interests .

Farotimi's arrest stems from a petition filed by Tony Elumelu, chairman of UBA, which he had honored by attending the police invitation . Additionally, Farotimi alleged that senior lawyer Afe Bababola mobilized the Nigerian police to arrest and take him to Ekiti State for trial ². The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has also slammed the police over Farotimi's illegal arrest, demanding his release .

This incident raises concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the manipulation of law enforcement for personal agendas. Atedo Peterside, founder of Anap Foundation, echoed Obi's sentiments, stating that those behind the petitions have defamed themselves, and Farotimi's arrest confirms his status as a giant they fear .

The international community is watching closely as Nigeria grapples with issues of democracy, justice, and human rights. The incident highlights the need for strengthened institutions and the protection of individual freedoms. As Obi emphasized, "The police must recognize that their allegiance is to the constitution and the people of Nigeria, not to narrow interests at the behest of those in power" .