Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed strong disapproval over the arrest and detention of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, describing it as an act of impunity and a blatant violation of human rights. Atiku’s remarks coincided with International Human Rights Day, a global occasion to reaffirm the commitment to respecting and protecting individual freedoms as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Farotimi, based in Lagos, was detained last Friday and transported to Ekiti State over accusations of defaming prominent legal figure Aare Afe Babalola in a book. A magistrate later denied him bail, leading to his remand in custody.

Atiku labeled Farotimi as a courageous advocate for human rights whose imprisonment serves as an alarming symbol of the disregard for civil liberties in Nigeria. He criticized the invocation of non-existent laws in Ekiti State and the misuse of the cyberbullying law to stifle opposition and press freedom. Atiku also emphasized the urgent need for government officials to honor their constitutional obligations to protect citizens’ rights.

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) joined the criticism, condemning Farotimi’s treatment as a misuse of public resources and police power. HURIWA argued that the defamation claim should be addressed as a civil matter, not through criminal detention. They criticized the punitive bail condition of ₦50 million, describing it as disproportionate and designed to further suppress Farotimi.

HURIWA also condemned the use of handcuffs, highlighting it as a violation of Farotimi’s dignity. They called for an investigation into the actions of the police and urged Afe Babalola to pursue the case through civil channels. The group further called on professional bodies like the Nigerian Bar Association to oppose such injustices and advocate for systemic reforms.