By Ayomide Otitoju
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has commended lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi for his resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
In a tweet on Friday, Obi reflected on his recent visit to Farotimi, who was released from a correctional facility in Ekiti after his arrest in December. Obi lauded Farotimi’s unwavering commitment to advocating for good governance and a better Nigeria, despite his recent ordeal.
“I was pleased to find him in good spirits and deeply encouraged by his dedication to the struggle for a better Nigeria,” Obi wrote. “Dele Farotimi exemplifies courage in the face of adversity, consistently taking bold stands for good governance in our nation.”
The former governor also expressed optimism about their shared vision for national development, wishing Farotimi a productive and impactful year ahead.
Arrest and Allegations
Farotimi was arrested on December 3 by officers of the Ekiti State Police Command. The arrest stemmed from allegations of defamation and cyberbullying brought by Senior Advocate of Nigeria and prominent legal figure, Aare Afe Babalola.
The allegations centered on statements made in Farotimi’s 116-page book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where Babalola claimed he was defamed. Farotimi was subsequently detained but has since regained his freedom.
Symbol of Resilience
Farotimi’s ordeal has drawn attention from activists and political figures, who view his advocacy as a testament to his commitment to justice and accountability in Nigeria. Obi’s visit underscores the solidarity among advocates for good governance in the face of challenges.
The development highlights the ongoing struggle for justice reform and the broader push for transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s governance landscape.
