Peter Obi Visits Dele Farotimi After Release (Photo)

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has reaffirmed his dedication to justice and free speech by visiting human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi who was recently released from an Ekiti State correctional facility.

Farotimi had been detained for weeks over alleged defamation against Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Afe Babalola, linked to statements made in his book.

In a heartfelt post on X, Obi detailed his visit, expressing joy at seeing Farotimi in high spirits:
“Yesterday, following my visit and meeting with President Obasanjo, I made time to visit my dear younger brother, Dele Farotimi. Since his return from the correctional center in Ekiti, I have not had the opportunity to meet with him. I was pleased to find him in good spirits and deeply encouraged by his unwavering dedication to the struggle for a better Nigeria.”

Farotimi’s detention drew public outcry, especially among advocates for free speech and human rights. After meeting stringent bail conditions, including a ₦30 million bond, he was released and has since resumed his advocacy for justice. Addressing his supporters, Farotimi emphasized his unwavering commitment to truth, stating, “In my public advocacy, I have never lied against anyone. If I don’t know something, I will simply say I don’t know.”

The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) also weighed in, clarified that it could not debar Farotimi over the allegations, as the statements in question were made in his capacity as an author, not a legal practitioner. The LPDC stated, “The publication is an intellectual property and not a conduct/action committed while practicing as a Legal Practitioner. As such, all aggrieved parties, who find the publication ‘defamatory’ should ventilate their grievances through the regular courts.”

Farotimi’s release and Obi’s role in supporting him highlight the ongoing struggle for truth and justice in Nigeria’s political and legal systems.
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