Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the arrest of civil rights activist Dele Farotimi, describing it as a troubling reminder of the repressive practices associated with past military regimes.
Mr Farotimi was detained on Monday over allegations of defaming Senior Advocate of Nigeria Afe Babalola in his book, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr Abubakar, who was the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, questioned the involvement of law enforcement in what he called a “civil matter” of defamation. He argued that such disputes should be resolved through the courts, not through police action.
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The former Vice President further alleged that the incident reflects an increasing tendency by the administration of President Bola Tinubu to suppress free speech, warning that such actions undermine fundamental constitutional rights.
Emphasising the importance of freedom of expression, Mr Abubakar advised that individuals who feel defamed have legal avenues to seek redress without resorting to state coercion.
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