Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has condemned the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Afe Babalola, and the Nigeria Police Force over the arrest and trial of fellow lawyer and public affairs commentator, Dele Farotimi.
Farotimi was detained at his Lagos law firm by officers of the Ekiti State Police Command following a petition from Chief Babalola, accusing him of defamation in his book, Nigeria and the Criminal Justice System. He was subsequently transported to Ekiti State, where a Chief Magistrate’s Court ordered his remand in a correctional facility, adjourning the case to December 10.
Civil Disputes Mismanaged
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Adeyanju criticized what he described as the misuse of police resources for a civil matter. “It is disheartening to see state resources being used to intimidate and harass a lawyer voicing societal concerns,” he remarked. He also decried the police’s involvement, urging the force to prioritize addressing national security challenges over acting as “errand boys for the wealthy.”
Adeyanju questioned why Farotimi was arraigned in Ekiti instead of Lagos, where the alleged offense occurred, and denounced the reported raid on Farotimi’s law office, calling it an abuse of power and rights violation.
Call for Reforms
The activist urged systemic reforms to prevent security agencies from engaging in personal disputes, suggesting that President Bola Tinubu issue an Executive Order to bar such practices. He also called on the Inspector General of Police to redirect resources toward fighting insecurity, terrorism, and banditry, including confronting a rising terrorist group, Lakurawa, in Zamfara State.
“Taxpayers’ money must not be wasted on personal battles,” Adeyanju asserted.
Condemnation of Journalist’s Harassment
Adeyanju also condemned the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo by military personnel in Rivers State while investigating illegal oil bunkering. He alleged complicity by state actors in crude oil theft, accusing the military of exposing Soyombo to harm.
“Journalists must be protected to expose corruption without fear, he added” , citing evidence implicating security forces in aiding oil theft.
Criticism of Opposition Parties
Adeyanju further criticized opposition political parties for their failure to hold the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accountable. “The opposition is weak and compromised, neglecting their constitutional duty to challenge poor governance,” he said, warning that their ineffectiveness poses a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
Adeyanju’s remarks highlight the urgent need for reforms, stronger opposition, and a redefinition of security agencies’ roles in governance and justice.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
