Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly condemned the arrest and detention of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, describing it as an alarming violation of fundamental rights. In a statement, Atiku drew parallels between the current situation and the oppressive tactics of Nigeria’s military dictatorship era, particularly the government’s crackdown on dissenting voices.
He warned that the arrest is part of a broader agenda by the current administration to stifle free expression, suppress opposition voices, and create a one-party state. Atiku described the move as a clear attack on democracy and freedom of speech.
Reaffirming his belief in the rule of law, Atiku emphasized that defamation cases should be resolved in courts, not through state-enforced intimidation. He shared his own experience of being defamed in 2019, noting that he sought redress through the legal system, not through police force. Atiku concluded his statement by demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Dele Farotimi, urging the government to respect citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and association
