Dele Farotimi, a well-known human rights lawyer and outspoken critic of Nigeria’s government, has been arrested by police after businessman Tony Elumelu accused him of defamation. Elumelu is the chairman of UBA Group, a major financial institution in Africa.
The arrest was made public by Omoyele Sowore, a former Nigerian presidential candidate, who shared the news on X. Sowore criticized the police, saying they “cannot continue to be used to settle personal scores” and called for Farotimi’s immediate release.
Farotimi, who often speaks out on behalf of ordinary Nigerians, had previously warned of attempts by police to intimidate him. In November, he was summoned to the Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos, where he was shown the defamation petition reportedly filed by Elumelu’s lawyer.
Farotimi’s arrest has reignited concerns about the growing use of law enforcement in Nigeria to silence dissent, leaving many questioning the country’s commitment to free speech and justice.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
