By Divine Ihechimerem
The Obidient Movement, a pro-democracy group advocating for human rights and good governance, has condemned the recent arrest of Barrister Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights lawyer and activist, calling it a gross violation of his constitutional rights.
At a press conference held today, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, expressed deep concern over Farotimi’s detention, which allegedly followed a petition he filed to the Inspector General of Police. The petition reportedly raised serious concerns about governmental misuse of power and the suppression of free speech in Nigeria. Tanko argued that the arrest was an effort to silence Farotimi for speaking out against the government’s policies, which he described as exacerbating the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
“The government has inflicted pain on the Nigerian people through reckless economic decisions, including the recent increase in fuel prices from ₦165 to over ₦1,100 per litre, depending on location,” Tanko said. “This has directly increased the cost of living, with food and basic commodities becoming unaffordable for many Nigerians. Civil servants are struggling to make ends meet, and millions are going hungry.”
Tanko also highlighted the devaluation of the Nigerian Naira, which has seen the exchange rate rise dramatically to over ₦1,800 to the dollar, worsening the economic hardship for citizens. “Businesses are collapsing, and Nigerians are left to fend for themselves without the support of government policies aimed at reviving critical sectors such as agriculture and industry,” he added.
The press conference also addressed other pressing issues such as the hike in electricity tariffs, which Tanko argued had done nothing to improve the quality of power supply, and the looming tax reforms that critics fear could further impoverish citizens without tangible improvements in economic productivity.
“People are struggling to survive,” Tanko said. “The minimum wage can no longer even afford a bag of rice or other basic necessities. Many civil servants report that their salaries last no more than 48 hours before they are forced to borrow from loan sharks.”
Farotimi, known for his vocal advocacy for human rights and justice, has long been a critic of the current administration, particularly its handling of the economy, security, and human rights. The Obidient Movement believes that his arrest is a blatant attempt to intimidate those who challenge the government’s policies, especially those calling for accountability and justice.
In light of these developments, the Obidient Movement has demanded Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release. They also called on the Nigerian authorities to respect his fundamental rights as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution, particularly the right to freedom of expression and assembly.
“We will not stand by and allow this government to trample on the rights of its citizens,” Tanko warned. “If Dele Farotimi is