*Says Nigeria’s Conscience in Chains

The Professionals for Good Governance and Social Justice strongly condemns the arrest and detention of Dele Farotimi, a human rights lawyer and political activist.  

The body said this in  statement by its Convener/Leader, Dr. Ben Chukwu.

His words:”The abduction, coming at a time when Nigeria is suffering unimaginable socio-economic strangulation, ought to stir deep resentment both among the circle of the few ‘Moral Crusaders/Vocal Guardians’ and the ordinary citizens who constitute the bulk of the country’s population. 

 The Ekiti state police command’s arrest was a shocking disregard for the rule of law, a cornerstone of democracy.  

Their actions were not only illegal but also involved bullying and intimidating lawyers and staff members, seizing their phones to cover up video evidence.  

 This outrageous behavior has undoubtedly damaged the reputation of the institution.  

The oppressors, having exploited the masses for far too long, have now set their sights on the leaders, seeking to dismantle the last vestiges of resistance. 

 Perhaps, Nigerians have yet to understand the personality of Farotimi and the implication of his arrest.  

 Farotimi is a unique individual who has dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of poor Nigerians.  He’s been a vocal critic of official corruption, refusing to back down even when it’s difficult.  

 In a country where the political class has consistently used tribe and religion to divide poor Nigerians during elections, Farotimi has remained unbiased in his criticism of corruption. 

 Farotimi’s commitment to justice and human rights is inspiring. His willingness to make personal sacrifices for the cause is emblematic of his character. 

 As a lawyer and activist, Farotimi has consistently spoken out against injustice and championed the rights of marginalized communities.  

 Farotimi’s history of activism is impressive, from his refusal to comb his hair or beard in protest against the unjust detention of Agba Jalingo and Omoyele Sowore in 2020, to his decision to grow an Afro in protest against Obasanjo’s Third Term Agenda.  

These acts of defiance demonstrate his unwavering dedication to fighting for what is right. The PGGSJ, therefore, is asking those directly or indirectly involved in the arrest of Farotimi to retrace their steps.  

Specifically, Afe Babalola, a renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria, must act immediately to salvage whatever integrity he believes he has acquired by virtue of his social status. 

 Babalola’s action in writing a petition against Farotimi, leading to his arrest, is a testament that even the most esteemed members of society can sometimes forget the fundamental principles of justice and human rights. 

 As a respected lawyer the petitioner has a responsibility to uphold the law and protect the rights of all citizens. 

 Instead, his action has been used to silence a vocal critic and undermine the democratic process. 

 Babalola has the obligation to reflect on his action and consider the implications of his petition.  

 We ask you to withdraw your petition and join us in calling for Farotimi’s unconditional release. 

 What has Farotimi said that is not being voiced by critical-thinking citizens who are passionate to enthrone a new Nigeria?  

 What has the activist said that does not resonate with millions of Nigerians who yearn for a good standard of living, but this goal is constantly hindered by the Oligarchs in the corridors of power? 

 No wonder the courageous activist has long ascribed to himself the title ‘A Victim of Nigeria’ and ‘A Leper’ in order to identify with the poor masses. 

 Farotimi’s advocacy for a radical and watertight reforms in our electoral process, for instance, stems from the fallout of the 2023 presidential election in which the Judiciary, in one judgement dashed the hopes of the highly spirited masses.  

 To the police, as the guardians of law and order, you have a sacred duty to protect the rights and dignity of all citizens.  

 However, the recent arrest of Farotimi, a vocal critic of corruption and injustice, raises serious concerns about the police’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting human rights. 

We urge the police to remember that their role is not simply to obey orders, but to serve and protect the people. As the great philosopher, Socrates, once said, “There is no law that can prevent a man from being a fool, but there is no excuse for a man to obey an unjust law.” 

 The police must strive to be guided by their conscience and not blindly obey orders that are in conflict with justice and human rights. 

 By doing so, they can start to rebuild the trust that has been eroded by their involvement in the arrest of Farotimi. 

 Additionally, Farotimi’s arrest has ushered in the need for urgent intervention by the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the systemic issues plaguing our nation. 

 The government’s inaction in this matter will only serve to further tarnish its already tainted public image.  

 It is imperative that the federal government takes immediate action to release Dele Farotimi unconditionally and ensure that his rights are protected. 

 This will send a strong message to the citizens that the government is committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights. 

 Moreover, the federal government must take concrete steps to address the widespread call for Judiciary and electoral reforms.  

 The allegations of judicial corruption that have been leveled against Babalola and others are a clear indication that the system is broken and needs to be fixed. 

 Dele Farotimi’s book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” is a scathing critique of the corruption and injustice that pervades our system.   

 The government’s response to his arrest should be to engage with the issues he has raised, rather than trying to silence him. 

 Finally, to young Nigerians. The time has come to rise up and challenge the illegal arrest of Farotimi.  

 Farotimi’s courageous stand against corruption and injustice has made him a voice for the voiceless, and his suppression is a direct attack on the millions of poor Nigerians who rely on him to speak truth to power. 

 As the bulk of Nigeria’s population, young Nigerians have a sacred duty to protect the few bold voices who dare to challenge the status quo. 

Farotimi’s arrest is a wake-up call for all Nigerians, especially the youth, to stand up against injustice and demand accountability from those in power. 

 The youth must recognize that their freedom, rights, and future are inextricably linked to the bravery and sacrifices of people like Farotimi.  

 By standing up for him, they are standing up for themselves and for the millions of Nigerians who are marginalized, oppressed, and silenced. 

 As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”  Young Nigerians, will you stand idly by while injustice reigns, or will you rise up and demand justice for Farotimi and for all Nigerians?  

“The choice is yours, but remember, “the future belongs to those who dare to challenge the present!”

Therefore, we call on the Federal Government to employ its good offices to influence the release of Farotimi. 

We ask the Nigerian Police Force render a public apology to individuals whose rights have been encroached as a result of farotimi’s arrest.

 In a special way, we call on all human rights and trade organisations, both national and international to rise and defend the cause of justice.

 The Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, Nigeria bar association, all professional bodies, and in fact, all Nigerians should get ready to occupy Nigeria. 

The government must know that if Dele Farotimi is not released, immediately, Nigeria will stand still. Period! “