The Nigerian Bar Association has called for the immediate release of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, who was arrested over allegations of libel.
The NBA described the arrest as a violation of the rule of law. In a statement on Wednesday, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), expressed concerns over the arrest and the reported invasion of Farotimi’s law firm by security agents.
“The Nigerian Bar Association is gravely concerned about the arrest of Dele Farotimi on allegations of libel, as well as the reported invasion of his law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises,” the statement read.
“These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.”
The NBA highlighted that under the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011, defamation is not recognized as a criminal offence.
“The alleged offence of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offence under the laws of Lagos State. The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation,” Osigwe added.
Citing a Supreme Court ruling in *Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021)*, Osigwe explained that defamation in Lagos State is treated as a civil matter.
“Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offence in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011,” the NBA stated.
The association also condemned the alleged invasion of Farotimi’s law firm by law enforcement agents, during which lawyers and staff were reportedly harassed, and their phones seized.
“Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession,” Osigwe noted.
The NBA called for an investigation into the incident and accountability for those responsible.
“We demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State. The authorities must swiftly investigate the invasion of his law firm, make the findings public, and hold those responsible accountable,” the statement concluded.
Farotimi’s arrest has sparked public outcry, with many Nigerians condemning what they see as an abuse of power and a disregard for due process.
