Obidients vows to resist intimidation, threaten Nationwide protests over Farotimi’s arrest
Supporters of the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, under the banner of the Obidient Movement, have threatened nationwide protests following the arrest of prominent human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi.
In a statement signed by the movement’s National Coordinator, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, the group condemned the arrest as an abuse of power aimed at silencing dissent.
“We unequivocally condemn this nefarious act of abuse of power and demand that the Nigerian Police respect Dele Farotimi’s fundamental human rights as enshrined in Section 40 of Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended),”
The movement demanded Farotimi’s immediate release, warning of mass protests should the authorities fail to comply.
It also called on the international community to take note of what it termed “a disturbing development” and to stand in solidarity with Nigerians advocating for justice and human rights.
The Obidient Movement described Farotimi as a consistent voice for good governance and human rights. His arrest, the group said, symbolizes a larger crackdown on freedom of speech and dissent.
“As a vocal advocate for human rights, Dele Farotimi has consistently spoken out against injustice and championed the rights of marginalized communities. His arrest appears to be a blatant attempt to silence him and intimidate others who dare to challenge the status quo,”
In addition to condemning Farotimi’s arrest, the group criticized the current administration’s economic policies, citing a fuel price hike from ₦165 to over ₦1,100 per liter, a significant devaluation of the naira with the dollar now trading above ₦1,000, and increased electricity tariffs without improvements in service delivery. They argued that these policies have deepened poverty and worsened living conditions for Nigerians.
The movement also expressed concerns about a “targeted crackdown” on opposition figures, hinting that Peter Obi could face similar threats. They vowed to resist any form of intimidation against Obi or any other advocate for justice.
