"Release Nnamdi Kanu: 'Nigeria is Just Imitating Democracy,' Says Farotimi"

Table of Contents

1. Farotimi's Criticism of Nigerian Police and Judiciary
2. The Essence of True Democracy
3. #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest in Abuja
4. Concerns Regarding the Judiciary
5. Government's Handling of Protests
6. Police Response to Protests

Civil rights advocate Dele Farotimi has condemned the Nigerian Police and the judiciary for limiting citizens' rights to conduct peaceful protests, asserting that their actions indicate Nigeria is merely "mimicking democracy."

During an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday, Farotimi contended that in a genuine democracy, citizens should not have to seek police approval to protest, emphasizing that the police's role should solely be to ensure security.

“The fact that a court would restrict citizens' right to protest peacefully indicates that we are not in a democracy. We are merely pretending,” he stated.

His comments came in the wake of Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja, led by activist Omoyele Sowore. Protesters marched despite a court ruling and police warnings, calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu before being dispersed with tear gas.

Farotimi also criticized the judiciary, claiming it acts as an extension of the executive branch and no longer upholds justice. He further argued that individuals who protest peacefully should not face criminal charges, asserting that only those who engage in violence should be arrested.

He referenced his own experience with a court case filed under what he termed a “non-existent law,” shedding light on the deficiencies within Nigeria’s legal system. Farotimi also expressed disapproval of the government’s response to previous protests, including the 2020 EndSARS movement, pointing out that police units were simply rebranded without any substantial reform.

In response to the protest, police spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin stated that the use of tear gas was essential to protect critical infrastructure in Abuja and to maintain law and order, in accordance with a court order that restricted protests around Aso Rock and other sensitive areas.