By Okafor Joseph Afam
December 29, 2024

Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights lawyer, has shared an emotional message of gratitude following his release from prison, where he was held for 21 days over alleged defamation charges. His arrest was linked to a legal action initiated by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola, stemming from claims in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.

In a heartfelt video titled The Road to Freedom, released on Sunday, Farotimi thanked Nigerians for their unwavering support, crediting their collective voice for his freedom. He emphasized that their unity transcended ethnic and religious divides, which are often exploited to fragment Nigerian society.

Unity Against Injustice

Farotimi’s ordeal began when a Chief Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, imposed stringent bail conditions, including a ₦30 million bond. Despite these challenges, Nigerians from all walks of life rallied for his release.

He said, “We stopped being human because we became Nigerians. They divided us and we fell for it. Because you wouldn’t see me as a Yoruba man, you spoke for me. Because you wouldn’t see me as a Christian, you spoke for me. Because you spoke, Nigeria couldn’t happen to me.”

Farotimi noted how the collective voice of Nigerians turned the tide in his case, highlighting the dangers faced by many others languishing in detention unjustly.

Calling Out Systemic Injustice

In his message, Farotimi raised pressing questions about the plight of countless Nigerians suffering in silence under a flawed justice system. He cited the cases of Naomi, a former queen; Oriyomi Hamzat, a journalist; and Abdullahi Mfasasi, a school principal, questioning why they, among others, were imprisoned.

“Exactly what is it that they have done that has earned them the need to be in prison? We should ask that question not just because of them but for the countless others without names that you and I have no knowledge of who are languishing in prison,” he stated.

Support Across the Nation

Farotimi’s gratitude extended to political and legal figures, including Mr. Peter Obi, Comrade Omoyele Sowore, and his legal team led by Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN). He also expressed profound appreciation for Prof. Festus Emeri (SAN), who, despite personal losses, represented him in court.

Traditional rulers, activists, and ordinary Nigerians also received his heartfelt thanks. “The show of support across the entire strata of our society is humbling. People showed up in Ado-Ekiti prison, big and small, demanding my release. You found your voices and ensured I wasn’t alone,” he said.

A Call to Action

Through tears, Farotimi called for continued advocacy against injustice, urging Nigerians to remain united and proactive.

“This isn’t about me; it’s about a system that oppresses the voiceless. You didn’t just speak for me; you spoke for justice. Let us continue to demand that the law must reign supreme,” he concluded.

Farotimi’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action and the need to address the systemic flaws within Nigeria’s justice system.