Renowned human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has declared his intention to take legal action against the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, over what he describes as the unlawful suppression of Nigerians’ rights and free speech.
Adeyanju, speaking on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja after the adjournment of a defamation lawsuit filed by Senator Ned Nwoko against former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, condemned Adejobi’s role in the arbitrary arrest and detention of citizens who use social media to demand accountability from the police.
He accused Adejobi of victimising individuals who criticise the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, warning that such actions undermine democracy and set a dangerous precedent for law enforcement in Nigeria.
‘A Police Spokesman Turned Oppressor’ – Adeyanju
Adeyanju did not mince words as he took aim at Adejobi, questioning his understanding of the responsibilities of a police spokesperson.
“The Nigerian people must be mindful of Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force PRO at the Force Headquarters. This man behaves as if his job is to silence critics through unlawful arrests and detentions. Was this how Frank Mba handled the role? Is this what public relations is about?” Adeyanju asked.
The activist recalled a distressing case involving one of his clients, who was allegedly arrested on Adejobi’s orders after posting about the abduction of the wife of a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police.
“This young man spent ten days in custody for merely sharing information about a kidnapping. His parents, desperate and distressed, went to beg Adejobi for his release, only to be met with humiliation. Not only did he disregard their plea, but he also reportedly detained three officers who allowed the parents to see him. Who does he think he is? A force PRO turned dictator?”
Adeyanju vowed to pursue decisive legal action against Adejobi, describing him as an “anti-democratic element” whose actions threaten the fundamental rights of Nigerians.
“The Nigerian police cannot continue to operate like a Gestapo force. Officers like Muyiwa Adejobi, who abuse their positions to intimidate and silence citizens, must be held accountable. We will ensure he faces legal and constitutional consequences to serve as a deterrent to others who think they can trample on people’s rights without repercussions,” he stated.
The lawyer also sent a strong message to the National Cybercrime Centre of the Nigerian Police, reminding them of their true mandate:
“Their job is to combat internet fraud and cybercrime, not to serve as an attack dog against Nigerians who criticise the government or demand accountability. Any attempt to misuse the agency for political oppression will be challenged.”
As Adeyanju prepares to take the battle to the courts, his challenge to Adejobi and the police hierarchy underscores a larger struggle for democratic freedoms in Nigeria. Will this legal showdown set a precedent for protecting free speech, or will the cycle of suppression continue? The coming days will tell.
PIONEER NEWS 