Human rights lawyer Kenneth Okonkwo has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of fellow human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi, who is currently being held at a Correctional Center. Okonkwo expressed these concerns in light of Farotimi's critical stance on corruption and systemic issues in Nigeria, which he outlined extensively in his book, *Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.*
Okonkwo, a former spokesperson for the Obi/Datti Campaign Organization, emphasized that Farotimi’s outspoken position against corrupt elites might provoke these individuals to resort to drastic measures against him. He warned that such actions could jeopardize Farotimi’s life and called for heightened vigilance to ensure his safety while in custody.
Dele Farotimi was arrested and detained at a Correctional Center over allegations of defamation brought against him by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Afe Babalola. The defamation case has drawn widespread attention and criticism, with many viewing the charges as an attempt to intimidate and silence a prominent voice advocating for justice and systemic reforms in Nigeria.
Okonkwo expressed his fears through a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, saying: “Now that Dele Farotimi is sticking to his guns on the purported defamation matter, his life must be protected at all costs in prison. Nobody should come and tell us he had a cardiac arrest or something happened to him after a brief illness.”
He continued, “Dele Farotimi was hale and hearty when he was unjustly arrested. He must be healthier whenever he comes out since the government that is holding him unjustly is wealthier than him. My guess is that these corrupt elites may settle this matter through another means if Dele Farotimi resists all their attempts at intimidating him.”
Okonkwo further called on the authorities to handle the situation with transparency and fairness, urging them to let the law take its course without any extrajudicial actions. He stressed that the international community is closely monitoring the situation and that any underhanded actions would have severe consequences.
“The authorities must be aware that the whole world is watching. They have chosen the legal option and must not resort to anything funny. Let the law be allowed to run its full course,” he added.
This development has sparked significant reactions from Nigerians, with many calling for justice and urging authorities to ensure that the detention of Dele Farotimi does not lead to any harm. Activists and supporters have continued to demand his immediate release and have condemned what they describe as an unjust and politically motivated arrest.
