NBA noted that while the Nigerian Police Force has the authority to investigate crimes, it must exercise such power within the confines of the law
By Kehinde Okeowo
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has condemned in strong terms the arrest of prominent human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
NBA knocked the action of the police on Tuesday night in Abuja via a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe.
TheNiche had earlier reported that Farotimi was arrested by the police following a petition by chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group, Tony Elumelu, alleging defamation.
He was allegedly picked up from his residence in Lagos and whisked to Ado, the Ekiti State capital, where he is currently being questioned.
Confirming the development on Tuesday via his social media page, Publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, wrote, “I just learned that Dele Farotimi was arrested by the Nigerian Police over a petition by Tony Elumelu of UBA Group alleging Dele defamed him.”
Reacting to the arrest, Osigwe lamented the alleged invasion of Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises.
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He went on to describe the action of the Nigeria police as a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.
He further noted that while the security agency has the authority to investigate crimes, such power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offences recognised under Nigerian law.
“We must reiterate that the alleged offence of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognised as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State.
“The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalisation of defamation by omitting it from its provisions.
“This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offence,” Osigwe stated.