HURIWA says Dele Farotimi prisoner of conscience, demands immediate release

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the ongoing detention and persecution of Nigerian lawyer and author, Dele Farotimi, over his book titled Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.

In a strongly-worded statement, HURIWA described Farotimi as a prisoner of conscience and demanded his immediate and unconditional release.

Farotimi, who has been a vocal advocate for justice and equity in Nigeria, was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti on December 9, 2024, on 12 counts of cybercrime charges under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

Despite pleading not guilty, the court imposed stringent bail conditions, including a N50 million bond, a surety resident in Ekiti with landed property within the court’s jurisdiction, and the surrender of his passport. These conditions, according to HURIWA, are excessively harsh and aimed at silencing a prominent voice for justice.

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HURIWA decried the glaring double standards in the administration of justice in Nigeria, noting that while Farotimi faces such punitive measures, the federal government has released and even reintegrated Boko Haram terrorists into society. “It is absolutely unacceptable that a reputable lawyer and activist like Dele Farotimi is being treated like a common criminal while the government pardons and rehabilitates individuals who have committed heinous acts against the Nigerian people,” HURIWA said in a statement by its national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko.

The association further criticized the public display of Farotimi in handcuffs, juxtaposed with the unrestrained movement of politically connected figures like former Governor Yahaya Bello, who faced no such indignities.

“This selective application of justice erodes public trust in the judiciary and reinforces the perception of a system skewed to oppress the voiceless while protecting the powerful,” HURIWA added.

HURIWA expressed disappointment in the silence of Nigeria’s organized civil society and human rights community. “Where are the once-vocal activists from Lagos and the South West? Why are they not rallying protests to demand justice for Dele Farotimi?” the statement queried. The group warned that this apathy could embolden the government to further suppress dissent and erode democratic freedoms.

While acknowledging the ongoing defamation suits filed against Farotimi by prominent lawyers from the Afe Babalola law firm, HURIWA argued that his detention has transcended a civil dispute. “This is no longer a case between Farotimi and Afe Babalola. The federal government’s seeming involvement, as evidenced by his prolonged detention in a federal prison, indicates a calculated effort to stifle his voice and intimidate others who dare to speak out against systemic injustices,” the group stated.

Farotimi faces multiple legal battles, including a libel suit seeking N600 million in damages, criminal defamation charges in a magistrate’s court, and cybercrime charges in a federal high court. HURIWA noted that these cases appear to be a deliberate strategy to overwhelm him and keep him in custody indefinitely. “The use of multiple charges and jurisdictions is a clear sign of panic and a coordinated attempt to crush a critic of the system,” HURIWA said.

HURIWA reminded the government and judiciary of the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty. “Farotimi remains innocent under the law until convicted by a competent court. The ongoing persecution and media spectacle violate his fundamental rights and undermine the rule of law,” the group stated.

The association also criticized the use of the magistrate court, which lacks jurisdiction over some of the charges, as a gambit to prolong Farotimi’s detention. “This manipulation of the judicial process is an affront to justice and must be condemned by all right-thinking Nigerians,” HURIWA asserted.

HURIWA called on the federal government to immediately release Farotimi, describing him as a political hostage and a victim of state repression. “The government’s actions are a blatant abuse of power and a dangerous precedent for the suppression of dissent. Dele Farotimi must be released without delay,” the group demanded.

HURIWA also urged international human rights organizations and the global community to intervene. “Nigeria’s democratic credentials are on the line. The continued detention of Farotimi is a litmus test for the country’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law,” the statement concluded.

HURIWA called on Nigerians to rise in defense of justice and demand accountability from the government. “This is not just about Dele Farotimi; it is about safeguarding the rights and freedoms of every Nigerian. If we allow this injustice to stand, we risk normalizing the persecution of voices of conscience,” the group warned.

As the January 29, 2025, adjournment date approaches, HURIWA vowed to intensify its advocacy and ensure that Farotimi receives the justice he deserves. The association reiterated its commitment to standing against tyranny and upholding the principles of justice, equity, and human rights in Nigeria.