The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly
condemned the arrest of lawyer Dele Farotimi over allegations of libel and the
reported invasion of his law firm by law enforcement.
In a statement, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN,
described the actions as a “troubling breach of the rule of law” and an affront
to the legal profession.
Osigwe emphasized that defamation is not a criminal
offense under the laws of Lagos State, citing the Criminal Law of Lagos State
2011 which repealed the criminalization of defamation. He also referenced a
2021 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed this position.
“Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such
as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation
of the principles of legality and the rule of law,” Osigwe stated.
The NBA President further condemned the reported
invasion of Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff,
including the seizure of their phones. He described these actions as a “severe
disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of
individuals.”
Osigwe demanded the immediate release of Farotimi,
stating that his arrest lacks any legal basis. He also called for a swift
investigation into the invasion of the law firm, with those responsible held
accountable.
“We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize the
principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their
operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the
protection of citizens’ freedoms,” Osigwe concluded.
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