The recent arrest and remand of Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights lawyer and democracy advocate, have sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria, with many condemning the incident as a grave abuse of power and a threat to democracy.

Dele Farotimi was reportedly detained over allegations of defamation, an offense widely regarded as a civil matter. The circumstances surrounding his arrest, including the alleged harassment of his staff, denial of bail, and subsequent imprisonment, have provoked strong criticism from Nigerians across political and professional spectrums.

Renowned economist and democracy advocate Professor Pat Utomi took to social media to express his concerns. Reflecting on Nigeria’s history under authoritarian regimes, Utomi warned of the dangers of repeating past mistakes. “I know where this points to, no matter the excuses, albeit civil and not criminal, that are being thrown up for his arrest,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Utomi emphasized that similar actions in the past led to international sanctions against Nigeria and described the current scenario as a worrying regression.

Similarly, Peter Obi, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate, issued a stern condemnation of the arrest. Highlighting the improper use of police powers, Obi stressed that defamation is a civil matter to be addressed through due process, not state-sponsored intimidation. “The Nigeria Police Force exists to protect the rights of citizens, not to suppress them,” he wrote on X. Calling for Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, Obi underscored the need for a justice system that upholds democracy and fundamental human rights.

Popular comedian and activist Debo Macaroni echoed these sentiments, criticizing the misuse of police authority to settle private grievances. He lamented the growing trend of influential individuals weaponizing state institutions to oppress others, noting, “It is in Nigeria that you can use the police to arrest someone and lock them up simply because you have the money or influence to do so.”

Debo further questioned the legality of the actions taken against Farotimi, including the seizure of personal property and denial of legal rights. “What scenario better explains the criminality in a justice system?” he asked, urging Nigerians to demand accountability and resist the normalization of such abuses.

The arrest of Farotimi has reignited conversations about the misuse of power in Nigeria, particularly the role of the police in civil disputes. Many critics argue that incidents like this undermine public trust in law enforcement and jeopardize the country’s democratic framework.

Meanwhile, Dele Farotimi’s Arrest Turns Book into No. 1 Bestseller on Amazon

The arrest of human rights advocate Dele Farotimi over alleged defamation has sparked public interest in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, which has now become an Amazon bestseller.

This comes as many Nigerians on social media continue to use the hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimi to demand the immediate release of the activist.

As the situation unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely, with many insisting that the case be handled transparently and in accordance with the law. For now, the arrest of Dele Farotimi stands as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy and the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability.