The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the arrest of a lawyer, Dele Farotimi, by the Nigerian Police Force over allegations bordering on libel.
In a statement Tuesday night, the NBA president, Afam Osigwe, also decried the alleged invasion of Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff.
NBA described the police actions as “a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.”
It said that while the police had the authority to investigate crimes, such power must be exercised within the confines of the law and concerning offences recognised under Nigerian law.
“We must reiterate that the alleged offence of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognised as a criminal offence under the laws of Lagos State.
“The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalisation of defamation by omitting it from its provisions. This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offence.
“The Supreme Court in Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021) affirmed this position. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offence in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011,” said the NBA.
The statement added that this “authoritative pronouncement leaves no room for doubt” and that under Sections 4 and 24 of the Police Act 2020, the force “is mandated to act only about conduct that constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law.”
NBA added, “Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of the principles of legality and the rule of law.”
It also expressed concern over the reported invasion of Mr Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff.
“Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals.
“The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law. The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones,” the statement stressed.
It pointed out that such actions violate the constitutional right to dignity and privacy and affront the legal profession’s independence.
“We, therefore, demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos state. The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.
“We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritise the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms,” NBA added.
