Human rights lawyer and former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, has criticized the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) for handcuffing lawyer Dele Farotimi during his arraignment over a defamation case. Odinkalu drew parallels between Farotimi’s treatment and the “honourable escort” given to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who is facing a multi-billion naira fraud trial.
Farotimi’s appearance in court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, in handcuffs sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the selective application of justice. While Farotimi, a vocal advocate for free speech, was handcuffed, high-profile politicians accused of massive corruption have appeared in court without similar treatment.
Odinkalu expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating, “They took @DeleFarotimi who has never touched a kobo of #Nigeria’s money & put him in handcuffs… Dele set these guys up & they’re falling for it.” The incident has highlighted concerns about the fairness and equality of Nigeria’s justice system.
