The sight of Lagos-based lawyer Dele Farotimi in handcuffs as he was brought to the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti for arraignment has sparked outrage among lawyers and activists across Nigeria. Farotimi is facing charges of defamation and Cybercrime, which many argue is a civil matter that does not warrant such treatment.

Prominent voices from across the legal and civil society spectrum took to social media to condemn the treatment of Farotimi, arguing that it undermines the principles of justice and fair treatment.

  • Deji Adeyanju, a prominent activist, remarked:

    “Shame on everyone involved in this embarrassment to the legal profession. A lawyer in handcuffs over defamation, not armed robbery, kidnapping, or any violent crime. No wonder they abducted Dele Farotimi and took him to Ekiti State.”

  • Olufunso Aluko, PhD, criticized the authorities:

    “This is definitely wrong and worrisome. The court, police, and corrections got this wrong. A case of defamation? Putting handcuffs on him is extreme and unwarranted.”

  • Festus Ogun, a lawyer, contrasted Farotimi’s treatment with others:

    “Dele Farotimi in handcuffs. Yahaya Bello walking majestically. A tale of two justice systems. #FreeDeleFarotimi.”

  • Inibehe Effiong, another human rights lawyer, questioned the rationale behind the handcuffs:

    “Why did @CorrectionsNg have to handcuff Dele Farotimi while taking him to court? He posed no threat and did not resist. This is preposterous. Dele Farotimi is a political prisoner and will come out stronger.”

Many critics viewed Farotimi’s handcuffing as a reflection of deeper systemic issues in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

  • Rinu Oduala, a youth advocate, argued:

    “Dele Farotimi is handcuffed for an offence that doesn’t even exist in the laws. Is he a criminal or a political prisoner? The Nigerian government should let us know. #FreeDeleFarotimiNow.”

  • Maduabuchi Agwude added:

    “Dele Farotimi in handcuffs for exposing the rot in the Nigerian judicial system. The world is watching.”

  • Shehu Gazali Sadiq called the move unjustifiable:

    “Dele Farotimi in handcuffs? He’s not a criminal. Whatever the oppressors wish to achieve by this display is dead on arrival. Dele Farotimi is no criminal.”

Many have urged the government to reconsider its approach, with hashtags like #FreeDeleFarotimi trending online. Observers argue that such displays could erode public confidence in the justice system, which many believe is already under scrutiny.

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