The presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi has stated that matters regarding regarding defamation should be treated in a civil manner and not turned into a tool for intimidation.
Peter obi made this remark in a post shared on his official X handle on Wednesday.
His statement comes following the unlawful detention of the Nigerian journalist, Dele Farotimi who was accused of defaming Afe Babalola.
He lamented that what played out in the issue of Farotimi is a neglect of democracy, freedom of speech and right to be proven innocence until found guilty in a law court.
Obi further stressed that at a time when national efforts should be directed toward addressing pressing issues such as insecurity, corruption, and economic challenges, the energy is been channeled to Farotimi’s case.
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His post reads,”The handling of the case involving human rights lawyer @DeleFarotomi runs foul of every Democratic norm that guarantees freedom of expression and innocence until found guilty before a law court.
” It’s curious that the Nigeria Police, who are struggling with a barrage of crimes all over the place, now indulge in civil cases on half complaints and rush to court at the speed of light. Hearing that Dele Farotimi has been remanded in prison over an allegation of defamation is very disturbing.
” This development raises serious concerns about the state of justice and freedom of expression in our country, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the alarming rise in criminal activities across the nation.
“At a time when national efforts should be directed toward addressing pressing issues such as insecurity, corruption, and economic challenges, it is disheartening to see the focus shifted to cases that appear to stifle critical voices.
“Matters of defamation are civil and should be treated as such, not turned into a tool for intimidation or the erosion of fundamental rights. The strength of any democracy lies in its ability to tolerate differing opinions and uphold the rule of law without bias.
“I once again call on the authorities to ensure that justice is served impartially and to prioritize the urgent task of combating the real threats plaguing our nation,” he added.
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