Dele Farotimi arrested over alleged defamation, experts question Police neutrality

On Tuesday, Nigerian police detained prominent lawyer and political activist Dele Farotimi following a defamation petition filed by Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group.

The arrest has sparked a wave of criticism from legal experts and political observers, with allegations that the police are being used to settle personal disputes.

The arrest was disclosed by pro-democracy campaigner Omoyele Sowore, who was the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Sowore wrote, “I just learned that Dele Farotimi was arrested by the Nigerian Police over a petition by Tony Elumelu of UBA Group alleging Dele defamed him.”

Sowore condemned the incident, urging the police to refrain from being a tool for private interests and demanding Farotimi’s immediate release.

Farotimi had earlier raised concerns about a police plot to abduct him under the guise of an investigation, despite his willingness to cooperate. He also alleged that senior lawyer Afe Babalola was involved in mobilizing law enforcement to ensure he was taken to Ekiti State for trial.

The defamation case revolves around public comments made by Farotimi, which reportedly criticized Elumelu. Legal analysts note that defamation cases are civil matters typically resolved through court proceedings rather than police involvement, raising questions about the appropriateness of the arrest.

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Legal expert and human rights advocate Jiti Ogunye criticized the police for what he termed “overreach,” emphasizing that the institution should remain impartial.

“The use of police to intimidate or silence critics sets a dangerous precedent. Defamation is not a criminal offense but a civil matter. This action undermines the rule of law,” Ogunye stated.

Similarly, political analyst Chidi Odinkalu questioned the broader implications of such arrests on freedom of expression. “When powerful individuals leverage state apparatus for personal grievances, it creates a chilling effect on public discourse,” Odinkalu warned.

Farotimi’s arrest has ignited public outrage, with citizens and activists rallying for his release.

Sowore’s post also highlighted growing frustrations over perceived abuses of power by influential figures. “This is an issue that concerns every Nigerian. The police cannot be a weapon in the hands of the wealthy to stifle dissent,” he said.

Civil society organizations have called for an independent review of the case. “The police must clarify their actions and ensure they are not complicit in undermining justice. The public deserves transparency,” said Oluwafemi Adekoya, a spokesperson for the Coalition for Justice and Accountability.

As the case unfolds, public scrutiny is expected to intensify, with many awaiting the police’s response to allegations of bias and overreach.