In a strong condemnation of the detention of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, Professor Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, has labeled the process as “judicial and legal terrorism.” Speaking during a discussion hosted by activist Omoyele Sowore on X Space, Odinkalu characterized Farotimi’s predicament as a form of “hostage-taking” under the guise of legality.
Odinkalu highlighted the broader implications of the case, urging Nigerians to resist the suppression of free speech and systemic injustice. He warned that a failure to confront these issues would hinder the nation’s progress.
“This is not about Dele,” Odinkalu said. “It could happen to any of us. If one person can commandeer the police, judiciary, political system, and prisons to detain a senior lawyer over baseless charges, it should alarm every Nigerian. It challenges the very idea of citizenship and justice in our country.”
Odinkalu expressed grave concern about what he described as a conspiracy of silence among legal practitioners, judges, and politicians. According to him, these groups manipulate the judicial system to protect their interests at the expense of justice.
He urged citizens to focus on holding the judiciary and legal professionals accountable, noting that without reforms, elections and democracy would continue to lose credibility. “Elections are no longer won at polling units but in courtrooms manipulated by a powerful cabal,” he said.
Odinkalu also criticized the misuse of judicial authority, citing controversial rulings that undermine public confidence in the rule of law. He argued that these actions delegitimize Nigeria’s democratic process and perpetuate oppression under the guise of legality.
Odinkalu praised those showing solidarity with Farotimi and emphasized that his case symbolizes a larger struggle for justice and equity in Nigeria. “Dele is not undergoing a legal trial; he is a hostage of judicial terrorism. We must challenge this narrative rigorously to protect all Nigerians facing similar oppression,” he said.
The professor called on Nigerians to demand accountability within the judiciary, stating that this battle is critical to reclaiming the nation from a narrow, oppressive cabal.
Odinkalu painted a stark picture of a nation where the judiciary and other institutions serve the interests of a privileged few while ordinary citizens suffer. He urged a collective effort to dismantle this system and create a nation where resources and opportunities are equitably distributed.
“This country has enough for everyone,” he said. “Yet, while many Nigerians are exiled or marginalized, the ruling elite prepare to pass their privileges to their children. This must stop, and the judiciary is the place to start.”
The conversation underscores a critical moment for Nigeria, as voices like Odinkalu’s call for systemic change to address the erosion of justice and democracy in the country.
