Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has urged the immediate release of lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi, who was detained by the Nigeria Police Force at the Zone 2 Command in Lagos State.
Farotimi’s arrest came in response to a defamation complaint lodged by Chief Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who accused him of damaging his client’s reputation. Prior to his arrest, Farotimi had expressed fears for his safety, citing threats from powerful individuals in Nigerian politics.
In her reaction, Ezekwesili took to her X account to voice her concerns. She stated, “I just came across the troubling news regarding the esteemed #ActiveCitizen Dele Farotimi. Has the Nigeria Police made any statement about his current status or location?”
She emphasized, “Dele articulates the sentiments of countless Nigerians when he dares to speak ‘Truth to Power.’ It is essential to safeguard his right to hold the government accountable for its actions.”
Ezekwesili called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure his officers provide an update on Farotimi’s situation and to expedite his release without delay.
