The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives has strongly condemned the gestapo-style arrest and detention of human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.

Led by Mr. Afam Ogene, the caucus called for judicial neutrality, impartiality, and a fair hearing in the defamation case brought against Farotimi by Chief Afe Babalola, SAN.

The caucus expressed deep concern over the growing trend of anti-democratic activities that undermine Nigeria’s civil governance.

Referencing the recent controversial arrest and imprisonment of Farotimi, who is facing defamation allegations initiated by Babalola, the caucus leader, Hon. Afam Ogene, stated on Thursday, December 5, that democracy is under threat when democratic institutions are manipulated by highly placed individuals against the people.

According to Hon. Ogene, the manner in which Farotimi was arrested in a gestapo-style operation from his Lagos office, alongside the harassment of his staff, raises significant concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the silencing of dissenting voices in Nigeria.

He emphasized: “The judiciary remains the last bastion of hope for all citizens in a democratic society. As such, it is imperative that the judiciary upholds the principles of impartiality and neutrality at all times, regardless of the social status or connections of any party involved in a dispute.

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“The Labour Party Caucus is committed to upholding the values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. In this regard, we call on the authorities involved in this controversial case to ensure that Barrister Farotimi’s rights and privileges are not denied.

“We also demand that the embattled lawyer be given a fair hearing and not made to suffer from any manipulated processes, as alleged by him in a statement before his forceful arrest and subsequent imprisonment.”

Farotimi had previously alleged during a press conference that court proceedings were initiated against him without his knowledge, leading to a bench warrant for his arrest for failing to appear in court.

He claimed these actions were part of a deliberate and fraudulent scheme to manipulate the judicial process, culminating in his arrest and imprisonment.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has also condemned the development, stating: “These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.”