On behalf of the associates, a representative, Taiwo Akinlami, said they were deeply troubled by the blatant violation of Farotimi’s rights following his recent arrest and detention.
The associates, therefore, demanded his fair treatment and prompt release per the law.
They said Farotimi, the author of Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, had become the target of criminal and civil litigations tied to his book, saying: “Despite his willingness to address these issues legally, his recent arrest and detention reflect a troubling disregard for procedural fairness and the rule of law.”
The associates also lamented the violation of Farotimi’s rights, alleging that he was arrested for “criminal defamation,” an offence expunged from the laws of Lagos State in 2011 and Ekiti State in 2021 but despite this, he was remanded, bail was denied based on a requirement for a written bail application, contrary to standard practice for summary trials.
They, however, lamented the impact of the development on Farotimi and his family, saying that the events have significantly disrupted his ability to prepare for multiple civil suits filed during his detention.
“As associates, we are also concerned about the toll this situation is taking on his family, particularly his 76-year-old mother, who has already suffered the loss of one child,” they stated.
