Peter Obi Grassroots Mobilization, a prominent advocacy group, has condemned the recent statement made by the court magistrate and the Nigerian Police prosecutor in the ongoing trial of Dele Farotimi. Taking to their official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the group described the claims of feeling unsafe due to the crowd gathered outside the courtroom as “disgraceful.”
The statement, which has sparked widespread debate, criticized both the judiciary and the police for allegedly prioritizing personal comfort over justice. “Both the magistrate and the Nigerian police should be ashamed of themselves,” the group asserted, expressing frustration over what it termed as repeated embarrassments to the nation’s reputation.
“This is yet another instance of Nigeria being disgraced on the global stage,” the post read, accompanied by the hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimiNOW to amplify the growing calls for justice and transparency in Farotimi’s case.
Dele Farotimi, a vocal activist and lawyer, has garnered significant public support due to his advocacy for accountability and good governance in Nigeria. The courtroom premises have become a rallying point for citizens demanding justice, with many interpreting the large crowds as a demonstration of solidarity rather than a threat.
The group’s statement further underscores the tensions between Nigeria’s institutions and its citizens. “Enough is enough,” it declared, urging the authorities to address the root causes of public dissent rather than suppressing it.
The controversy has also drawn attention from international observers, with many questioning the fairness and integrity of the Nigerian judicial system. Critics argue that the authorities’ inability to handle peaceful demonstrations around the courtroom reflects poorly on the country’s commitment to democratic principles.
As the case continues, the grassroots mobilization group has vowed to keep advocating for justice and holding institutions accountable. The call to action has resonated with Nigerians across the globe, further intensifying pressure on the judiciary and law enforcement agencies to ensure fairness and uphold the rule of law.
The Dele Farotimi case serves as yet another reminder of the fragile relationship between the state and its citizens, with many hoping it will spark broader reforms in Nigeria’s justice system.