By Bayero Ade
Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has criticized the Nigerian Correctional Service for what she called the unnecessary and excessive handcuffing of activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi.
In a series of tweets, Ezekwesili questioned the justification for such treatment, particularly in a civil matter between Farotimi and Chief Afe Babalola. She expressed her concern about the growing lack of trust in the judiciary, which she believes is increasingly influenced by the political elite.
“What crime is the Nigerian government or police prosecuting Dele Farotimi for at this point? This reckless undermining of public institutions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration will not endure. Never,” she tweeted.
Ezekwesili also called on the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunde-Ojo, to provide an explanation for the handcuffing and ensure that such actions by overzealous officers are not repeated.
She urged the authorities to respect citizens’ constitutional rights and allow the case to proceed through the proper judicial channels, emphasizing the importance of handling allegations of defamation fairly.
Concluding her remarks, Ezekwesili stressed the need for wisdom, restraint, and respect for citizens’ rights, adding, “Enough is enough.”
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