Activists To Protest Farotimi’s Detention In UK

Activists in London are set to gather at King’s College London (KCL) to protest the detention of human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, by the Nigeria Police Force in Ekiti State.

Farotimi was arrested following a defamation petition by Nigerian legal luminary, Afe Babalola, SAN, over claims made in his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System”

The protest aims to raise awareness of the alleged injustice against Farotimi and demand his immediate release.

Human rights activist Olawale Bakare, popularly known as Mandate, has called on Londoners via social media to join the demonstration scheduled for December 10.

“Protecting free speech and standing up for one another are essential to building a better Nigeria.

“If you’re in London, join us at KCL on Tuesday to protest against Afe Babalola’s tyranny and demand the unconditional release of Dele Farotimi. A free Nigeria begins with protecting free speech and standing up for each other. Be there! #FreeDeleFarotimi,” Bakare wrote.

The protest in London is part of a broader global movement organized by prominent activist Omoyele Sowore and the Take It Back Movement (TIB).

On the same day, December 10, protests titled “Nigerians Refuse to be SILENCED” will be held in Lagos, Abuja, Ado-Ekiti, and at KCL in London.

It was noted that international pressure is mounting on King’s College London to reconsider its association with Afe Babalola.

Human rights organizations have urged the university to cancel the Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education and return his donations, citing alleged abuse of power.