The Lawyers Watch For Justice International Initiative has written to the Nigeria Inspector General of Police,IGP Kayode Egbetokun expressing deep concern on the manner in which Dele Farotimi Esq law firm was invaded and staff device confiscated by Police Office.
4th,December, 2024
THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE
LOUIS EDET HOUSE,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.
GRAVE CONCERN ON THE ATROCIOUS ARREST OF DELE FAROTIMI, ESQ; THE
HARRASMENT OF HIS STAFF AND INVASION OF HIS LAW OFFICE
Lawyers Watch for Justice International Initiative condemns the illicit arrest of Dele Farotimi on purely a
civil concern. We consider the harassment and seizure of the phones of his staff and the invasion of his law
firm as very disturbing, unwarranted and cruel.
These actions flagrantly violate the rule of law and blatantly infringe upon his fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
It is imperative to note that Dele Farotimi is a vocal critic and a human rights activist whose opinions are
aimed at nation building. Hence, he is entitled to express his opinions on matters of public interest without
fear of reprisal.
His arrest and the invasion of his office is detrimental to the progress and development of any society globally as this act has the potential to severely curtail freedom of expression in Nigeria and undermine the fundamental human rights of all citizens.
The authority of the Nigerian Police Force to embark on investigations cannot be undermined, but such must be exercised within the ambits of the law and with utmost respect for fundamental freedoms, which is not the position now. This arrest is extremely unpleasant and reprehensible; and we call for the following;
a. Immediate Release: The immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest is unwarranted;
b. Diligent Investigation: with due diligence the police should investigate the circumstances leading to
the arrest of Dele Farotimi and the manner in which the arrest was executed.
We urge the Nigerian Police Force to be very circumspect in this case and ensure that her duties are always discharged within the boundaries of the law and respect for human rights.
___________________________
Director, Human Rights & Litigations
cc:
1. NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
9, AGUIYI IRONSI STREET,
MAITAMA, ABUJA.
2. GENTLEMENT OF THE PRE