Igbo youths council condemns arrest of Dele Farotimi, describes it as victimization of Nigerian masses

December 06, 2024

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Igbo Youths Council has strongly condemned the arrest of Comrade Dele Farotimi, a renowned human rights lawyer and activist.

The group described the arrest as a deliberate attempt to silence the voice of the Nigerian masses.

Comrade Igboayaka Igboayaka, leader of the Igbo Youths Council, expressed dismay over the manner of Farotimi’s arrest, which was captured in a viral video circulating online.

“We are shocked to witness the Nigeria Police assaulting workers at the law firm, including seizing phones and other office gadgets, as depicted in the video,” Igboayaka said.

Farotimi’s arrest has been described as a national indignity, an attack on freedom of speech and expression, and a violation of his fundamental human rights.

The Igbo Youths Council criticized the alleged involvement of legal luminary Pa Afe Babalola, SAN, in the incident, urging him to reconsider his position to preserve his hard-earned reputation.

The group views Farotimi’s arrest as an attempt to suppress his uncompromising stance against societal injustice.

“It is essential for those who feel threatened by him to recognize that his advocacy is vital for addressing political excesses, abuse of power, and corruption,” Igboayaka added.

Farotimi has been instrumental in fostering accountability and transparency in Nigerian governance through his impartiality and commitment to justice.

“Farotimi Dele represents the voice of democracy and the fight against marginalization and victimization. Silencing such a detribalized advocate is a disservice to the nation,” the statement read.

The Igbo Youths Council has called on the police to respect fundamental rights and reconsider actions that undermine democracy and justice in the country.