The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, a human rights lawyer and NBA member, who was arrested by the Nigerian police. The NBA also demanded a swift investigation into the invasion of Farotimi’s law firm, emphasizing that the findings should be made public and those responsible held accountable.
According to reports, Farotimi was taken to Ekiti State by the police after his arrest in Lagos State, following a raid on his residence. The arrest was allegedly based on a petition by Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) over allegations of cybercrime.
The NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, expressed grave concern about Farotimi’s arrest and the invasion of his law firm. Osigwe emphasized that the alleged offense of libel, for which Farotimi was arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State. He also highlighted that the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation by omitting it from its provisions.
The NBA condemned the invasion of Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones. The association urged law enforcement agencies to prioritize the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations.
