By Joy Yesufu
The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere has strongly condemned the “abduction” of civil rights activist Dele Farotimi and demanded his immediate release.
Farotimi was reportedly arrested by the Ekiti Police Command and subsequently remanded in prison following his appearance at the Ado Ekiti Magistrate Court today.
Prior to his arrest, he raised alarms regarding a potential plan to abduct him to Ekiti State based on defamation allegations linked to his book.
In response to the incident, Afenifere issued a statement through its Deputy Leader and National Publicity Secretary, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and Prince Justice Faloye, describing the action as “illegal, crude, uncivilized, and utterly unacceptable in a country professing democratic values.”
The statement continued: “Afenifere demands the immediate release of Dele Farotimi or his prompt appearance in court. He is presumed innocent of all charges, and the burden of proof lies with his accusers, regardless of their societal standing.”
Farotimi, a vocal critic of the government, is noted for his anti-corruption work in the judiciary and advocacy for equity and true federalism.
Afenifere expressed grave concern about reports suggesting that law enforcement might utilize legal technicalities to extend Farotimi’s detention for 30 days or more.
“Afenifere calls upon all defenders of democracy and civil rights to stand against this pervasive and unacceptable conduct by law enforcement officers, which mirrors the actions of criminal gangs that disregard citizens’ rights,” the statement added.
