Civil rights advocate, Dele Farotimi, has condemned the Nigerian Police and the judiciary for allegedly stifling citizens’ constitutional right to protest, describing their actions as proof that Nigeria merely operates under the illusion of democracy.
Speaking on The Morning Brief aired on Channels Television on Tuesday, Farotimi argued that the right to peaceful protest should never require approval from law enforcement agencies in any genuine democratic society.
“In a democracy, citizens don’t need permission to express dissent,” Farotimi stated.
“The police should only be notified to provide protection, not to determine whether or not a protest can hold.”
His comments came in response to the recent #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration in Abuja, which was led by activist Omoyele Sowore.
Despite a court injunction and police warnings, the protesters took to the streets chanting slogans such as ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu now!’ and ‘It’s our constitutional right to protest!’ before they were dispersed by police gunfire and teargas.
Farotimi, a lawyer and prominent human rights campaigner, said the incident further underscores the extent to which state institutions have abandoned democratic principles.
“It’s unimaginable that citizens in a democracy must seek permission from their employees, the police, to gather peacefully,” he remarked.
“That alone tells you something is fundamentally wrong with our system.”
He also accused the judiciary of serving political interests rather than upholding justice, claiming that court orders restricting protests are unlawful and contrary to democratic norms.
“I’m sorry to say this, but our judiciary no longer acts independently,” he said.
“It has become an extension of the executive arm and often obeys directives rather than the law. A court order is only valid when it is grounded in justice and legality.”
Farotimi’s criticism adds to the growing calls for reform of Nigeria’s justice and security systems, with activists urging the government to respect fundamental rights guaranteed under the constitution.
Human rights observers say the continued crackdown on peaceful protests sends a troubling signal about Nigeria’s democratic health and civic freedom.