Dele Farotimi, a human rights activist, was brought to court in handcuffs in Ekiti after being arrested for defamation by Afe Babalola. The incident sparked outrage from Nigerians who questioned the excessive treatment for a civil matter. Many labeled Farotimi a political prisoner and demanded his release.
Human rights activist Dele Farotimi faced public outrage after being brought to court in handcuffs for a defamation lawsuit filed by prominent lawyer Afe Babalola. Farotimi, known for his advocacy on Nigeria’s justice system, was arrested in Lagos by officers from the Ekiti State Police Command. The lawsuit stems from claims in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where he allegedly defamed Babalola.
The incident has sparked widespread anger, especially as Farotimi’s alleged crime is defamation, a civil matter, not a violent or criminal offense. Critics, including activist lawyers like Deji Adeyanju and Inibehe Effiong, expressed disbelief over the excessive handling of Farotimi, who was reportedly cooperative and posed no threat. Effiong described the situation as “preposterous,” arguing that Farotimi is being unjustly treated as a political prisoner rather than a defendant in a civil case.
Social media users also condemned the actions, questioning why a person accused of defamation would be handcuffed and paraded in such a manner. With comments such as “Is he a criminal or a political prisoner?” many Nigerians are calling for Farotimi’s release, rallying behind the hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimi.
