Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of suppressing dissent and targeting critics, including human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, as part of an alleged effort to establish a one-party state.
Atiku described Farotimi’s arrest as reminiscent of the oppressive tactics used during military rule, labeling it a misuse of state power.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, he criticized the involvement of law enforcement in what he termed a civil defamation matter.
“The detention of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi is utterly unacceptable and serves as a stark reminder of the repressive days of military dictatorship, when dissent was met with authoritarian force,” Atiku stated.
He argued that defamation allegations should not require police intervention, calling the arrest an excessive and inappropriate use of state resources.
“This incident highlights the dangerous trajectory of this administration, where police powers are weaponized to silence criticism. Such actions are a direct assault on democracy and the right to free expression,” he added.
The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) warned that these arrests undermine democratic values and create a climate of fear, potentially stifling public discourse and opposition.
Atiku emphasized that freedom of speech is a constitutional right and reiterated that defamation is a civil issue best resolved in court.
He cited his personal experience, noting that he had pursued legal action in a defamation case without resorting to law enforcement.
“The right to free speech is enshrined in our Constitution. If anyone feels wronged by defamatory remarks, the proper recourse is the judiciary, not the misuse of police authority. I call for the immediate and unconditional release of Dele Farotimi,” Atiku concluded.