Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has called for caution on the part of the Nigeria Police Force, saying the arrest and detention of an activist, Dele Farotimi, is illegal.
In a statement made available to journalists, Falana stated: “Without any fear of contradiction, Lagos State is among the two states in Nigeria that have decriminalised defamation in its entirety.”
He called for Farotimi’s release.
“I have confirmed that Mr. Dele Farotimi was arrested in Lagos on Tuesday for alleged criminal libel.
“In demanding for Mr. Farotimi’s unconditionally release from illegal custody, I wish to state, without any fear of contradiction, that Lagos State is among the two states in Nigeria that have decriminalised defamation in its entirety.”