The Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization Afenifere has called on the Nigerian police to restore their credibility by halting the prosecution of human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Wednesday, Afenifere’s deputy leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, criticized Farotimi’s arrest and prosecution, describing them as unlawful and unfair.
Olaitan alleged that the delays in granting bail raised concerns about the case being influenced by external forces rather than legal merits.
“The delay in granting bail validates suspicions that this process is being influenced by factors outside the law and the facts of the case,” he stated.
He further emphasized that Farotimi, presumed innocent under the law, is being subjected to unjust treatment.
“The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, yet this case appears to be driven by ulterior motives,” Olaitan remarked.
Afenifere also condemned the manner of Farotimi’s arrest, labelling it an “abduction.” According to Olaitan, the activist’s arrest was not properly recorded or documented at any Lagos police station, where the arrest occurred.
“This troubling practice of arresting individuals in one state and relocating them without proper documentation or notifying their families is unacceptable.
“It causes significant emotional distress for both the individual and their loved ones, who are often left in the dark about their location,” Olaitan said.
The group urged the police to adopt transparent and lawful procedures for arrests, ensuring they are logged at the nearest police station and that detainees are granted the right to contact family members or legal counsel.