Nigerian Bar Association Calls for Immediate Release of Dele Farotimi, Condemns Law Firm Invasion

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has demanded the immediate release of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, following his arrest by the Nigerian police and the subsequent invasion of his law firm. In a statement released Tuesday night, the NBA also called for a swift investigation into the incident, urging that findings be made public and those responsible held accountable.

Reports indicate that Farotimi was arrested at his Lagos residence and taken to Ekiti State by police officers acting on a petition by legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) over allegations of cybercrime. The NBA has raised concerns over the manner of the arrest and the invasion of Farotimi’s law firm, which reportedly involved the harassment of lawyers and staff and the confiscation of their phones.

NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described the events as a troubling breach of the rule of law and an attack on the independence of the legal profession. He emphasized that while the police have the authority to investigate crimes, such powers must be exercised within the boundaries of the law. Osigwe noted that defamation, the alleged offense for which Farotimi was arrested, is not a criminal offense under Lagos State law, as the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 decriminalized defamation, aligning with global best practices.

The NBA condemned the invasion of the law firm, stating that it violated constitutional rights to dignity and privacy while undermining the legal profession. The association expressed grave concern over reports of the harassment of lawyers and staff during the incident.

The NBA reiterated its demand for Farotimi’s immediate release, stressing that his arrest lacks any legal basis under Lagos State law. It also called for law enforcement agencies to uphold principles of legality, fairness, and human rights, which are fundamental to justice and democracy.

The association urged authorities to respect the sanctity of the legal profession and take immediate steps to address the incident, ensuring accountability and adherence to the rule of law.