Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has publicly expressed admiration for lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi, following the latter’s recent release from a correctional facility in Ekiti.
In a tweet on Friday, December 3, Obi described Farotimi as a symbol of courage, noting that the activist remained in high spirits despite the challenges he had faced.
Obi shared his pleasure at finally meeting with Farotimi after his return from detention and expressed deep encouragement from the activist’s unwavering commitment to advocating for a better Nigeria.
“Since his return from the correctional center in Ekiti, I have not had the opportunity to meet with him. I was pleased to find him in good spirits and deeply encouraged by his unwavering dedication to the struggle for a better Nigeria,” Obi wrote.
Obi went on to praise Farotimi’s resilience, adding, “Dele Farotimi exemplifies courage in the face of adversity, consistently taking bold stands for good governance in our nation.”
The former governor also wished Farotimi a fruitful and productive year ahead as they both continue their shared pursuit of national development.
Farotimi’s arrest on December 3 had sparked significant attention. He was detained by officers of the Ekiti State Police Command, following allegations of defamation and cyberbullying brought against him by respected legal figure Aare Afe Babalola, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Babalola accused Farotimi of defaming him in a 116-page book titled Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. Farotimi was later released after his detention.
The incident has prompted further discussions on freedom of expression and the rights of activists in Nigeria, with many praising Farotimi’s steadfastness in the face of legal challenges.
