Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticized a delegation led by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for seeking intervention from legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola in the case of detained activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Sowore condemned the move, describing it as counterproductive to efforts aimed at addressing systemic judicial malpractice in Nigeria.
He likened the gesture to “forcing Rosa Parks to return to the back of the bus of racial injustice during the civil rights era in the US,” emphasizing its detrimental effect on the ongoing struggle against judicial oppression.
Sowore accused the delegation of committing a “colossal injustice” to the campaign against judicial corruption, stating that such actions undermine efforts to transform the judiciary.
He reiterated his commitment to fighting for Farotimi’s freedom, urging supporters to stay resolute in the #RevolutionNow movement.
AFRIPOST reports that Dele Farotimi, known for his outspoken criticism of systemic injustices and corruption, was detained and remanded in prison on the charges of defaming Afe Babalola.
Meanwhile, the Ekiti state high court has granted Farotimi bail in the sum of 50 million naira.
The court granted Farotimi bail in the sum of N50 million, with a surety of the same amount.
The court ruled that the surety must possess a landed property and adjourned the matter to January 29, 2025, for further proceedings.
Sowore’s statement adds to the growing debate on how best to address judicial issues while ensuring justice for detained activists.