The Obidient Movement, a prominent socio-political group, has threatened to embark on nationwide protests following the arrest of Barrister Dele Farotimi, a renowned human rights lawyer and vocal advocate for good governance in Nigeria.
In a press briefing by the National Coordinator of the Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the group condemned what it described as a “Gestapo-style” arrest of Farotimi, which allegedly followed a petition filed to the Inspector General of Police.
The Movement asserted that the detention of Farotimi is a calculated move to suppress free speech and intimidate individuals speaking against the government’s policies.
“As a vocal advocate for human rights, Dele Farotimi has consistently spoken out against injustice and championed the rights of marginalized communities. His arrest appears to be a blatant attempt to silence him and intimidate others who dare to challenge the status quo.
“On this note, we unequivocally condemn this nefarious act of abuse of power and demand that the Nigerian Police respect Dele Farotimi’s fundamental human rights as enshrined in section 40 of chapter4 of the 1999 Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended .
“We urge the Nigerian authorities to ensure his immediate and unconditional release, guaranteeing that his rights are protected throughout the process.
“Failure to release him immediately , we shall invoke our fundamental rights as citizens to engage in a series of public protests across the country to challenge this gross abuse of power and neglect of the people.
“Furthermore, we call on the International Community to take note of this disturbing development and to stand in solidarity with Dele Farotimi and all those who are fighting for justice and human rights in Nigeria.
“The protection of human rights and the promotion of free speech are essential to a healthy democracy, and we must collectively defend these principles.
“Finally, we are aware of the one-by-one arrest which is targeted towards the arrest of His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi for speaking truth to power, we want to assure you that we will resist any form of cruelty and flagrant abuse of power against Mr Peter Obi,” the group stated.
The arrest of Farotimi has sparked widespread reactions, raising critical questions about the state of free speech and democratic principles in Nigeria.
