By Bayero Ade
Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has condemned the arrest and detention of lawyer and human rights advocate Dele Farotimi, describing it as a troubling abuse of power.
In a statement shared on social media, Atiku said Farotimi’s arrest highlights a disturbing return to authoritarian tendencies, reminiscent of the military era when dissenting voices were silenced.
“Dele is accused of defamation — a matter that should ordinarily be resolved in court, not through the heavy-handed involvement of law enforcement,” Atiku stated. “The Police’s role in this case is an overreach that betrays democratic principles.”
He accused the Tinubu administration of fostering a climate of fear aimed at suppressing freedom of expression and intimidating critics. “This alarming trend is part of a larger agenda to stifle opposing voices and erode democracy, paving the way for a one-party state,” he said.
Atiku emphasized that freedom of speech is a constitutional right, not a privilege, and urged the government to respect this fundamental principle. He also criticized the use of state power to settle personal grievances, arguing that individuals should pursue defamation claims in court rather than involving the Police.
Reflecting on his own experience, Atiku said, “In 2019, I faced defamation. Instead of resorting to intimidation, I sought legal redress in court, where the matter is still being addressed.”
He concluded by calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Dele Farotimi, describing his detention as an unacceptable misuse of state authority.
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