By John Alechenu

ABUJA – Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections, has strongly criticized the arrest of human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi over allegations of defamation.

Obi labeled the arrest as a misuse of police powers and a direct assault on democratic liberties.

In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi called for Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, emphasizing the need for the police to act within the bounds of justice and democracy.

“I just learned of the arrest of @DeleFarotimi, a respected human rights lawyer and advocate, over an allegation of defamation. This action is a gross misuse of police powers and a grave assault on the principles of democracy and justice in Nigeria,” Obi said.

Obi pointed out that defamation, by its nature, is a civil matter that should be resolved through the courts rather than by using police force. He stressed that the Nigerian Police Force should protect citizens’ rights, not suppress them.

“As a private citizen and a former governor, I have often been defamed, insulted, and lied against. Yet, I have never resorted to using the police or filing reports to silence others,” Obi said. He urged those who feel defamed to seek redress through proper legal channels instead of weaponizing state power.

Obi expressed concern over the independence and professionalism of the police, describing the arrest as an abuse of power. He called on the police to recognize their allegiance to the Constitution and the Nigerian people, not to serve narrow or partisan interests.

“The resort to police action in this case reeks of abuse of power and raises serious concerns about the independence and professionalism of the police as a civil force,” Obi added.

The Labour Party presidential candidate reiterated his belief in a fair and just Nigeria where freedom of expression is upheld. “Dele Farotimi should be released immediately and unconditionally. A new, more just, and fair Nigeria is possible,” he concluded.

The arrest of Farotimi has sparked widespread reactions, with many activists and legal professionals echoing Obi’s concerns and demanding his release.