Nigerian Police Detain Human Rights Advocate Dele Farotimi Over Defamation Allegations

Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights attorney, has reportedly been detained by the Nigerian Police at Zone 2 Command, Lagos, following a petition lodged by Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group. The petition accuses Farotimi of defamation based on statements he purportedly made in public forums.

Prior to his arrest, Farotimi had publicly raised concerns regarding alleged threats to his life, attributing these to high-ranking Nigerian elites allegedly conspiring with security operatives and legal practitioners. In a written declaration titled “They Want to Silence Me,” Farotimi recounted receiving an invitation letter from Zone 2 Police Command on November 11, summoning him to report to their office on November 13.

Arriving punctually at 9:45 AM on the appointed day, accompanied by his legal representative, Farotimi was presented with a petition authored by a lawyer representing Tony Elumelu. The petition accused him of making defamatory remarks. Despite deeming the accusations unfounded, Farotimi engaged with the petition's content, offering a detailed response.

The development has sparked outcry among human rights defenders, with activist Omoyele Sowore taking to social media to condemn Farotimi's arrest. Via his X handle, Sowore demanded Farotimi’s immediate release, criticizing the use of law enforcement for settling personal grievances.

Sowore stated, “I have been informed of the arrest of Dele Farotimi by the Nigerian Police, allegedly instigated by Tony Elumelu of UBA Group over claims of defamation. This action underscores the worrisome trend of misusing police authority to address individual disputes. As Nigerian citizens, we must unequivocally reject this abuse of institutional power.”

He further warned the Zone 2 Police Command to release Farotimi without delay, asserting that Nigerians would no longer tolerate the erosion of justice and institutional integrity.

This incident has reignited debates surrounding the misuse of law enforcement apparatus in Nigeria and its implications for freedom of expression and human rights advocacy.