The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has demanded the immediate release of its member and human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, by the Nigerian police.
The NBA in a release on Tuesday night also demanded that the government must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of Farotimi’s law firm, “with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.”
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Farotimi had been taken to Ekiti State by the police officers who arrested him, following a raid on his residence in Lagos State.
It was gathered that the arrest, conducted based on a petition by legal luminary, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), was over the allegations of cybercrime.
SaharaReporters learnt that after Farotimi’s arrest in Lagos, the Nigerian police drove him to Ekiti State by road.
Meanwhile, the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, in the release said, “The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is gravely concerned about the arrest of Dele Farotimi on allegations of libel, as well as the reported invasion of his law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.
“While the Nigerian Police Force has the authority to investigate crimes, this power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offenses recognized under Nigerian law.
“We must reiterate that the alleged offence of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State. The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation by omitting it from its provisions. This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offence.”
He added, “Of equal concern is the reported invasion of Dele Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals. The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law.
“The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr. Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones. Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession.
“We, therefore demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State. The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.
“We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritise the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms.”