Reps LP Caucus calls for judicial neutrality, fair hearing for Dele Farotimi

The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives has called for judicial neutrality, impartiality and fair hearing in the contentious defamation case brought against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi by Chief Afe Babalola, SAN.

The leader of the caucus, Mr. Afam Victor Ogene made the call in a statement issued in Abuja.

He said that the manner the embattled lawyer was arrested in a gestapo style from his office in Lagos state, and the harassment of members of staff of his law office, has sparked worries about the erosion of democratic principles and the silencing of dissenting voices in Nigeria.

The Caucus expressed deep concerns over the growing trend of anti-democratic activities and developments that undermine Nigeria’s civil governance.

Referencing the recent controversial arrest and imprisonment of Barrister Farotimi, who is facing allegations of defamation initiated by Babalola, the leader said that democracy is under threat when democratic institutions are manipulated against the people by highly placed individuals.

“The judiciary remains the last bastion of hope for all citizens in a democratic society, as such, it is imperative that the judiciary upholds the principles of impartiality and neutrality at all times, regardless of the social status or connections of any party involved in a dispute before it.

“The Labour Party Caucus is committed to upholding the values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, and in this regard we call on the authorities involved in this controversial case to ensure that Barrister Farotimi’s rights and privileges are not denied.

“We also demand that the embattled lawyer be given fair hearing, and not made to suffer from any manipulated processes, as was alleged by him in a statement before his forceful arrest and subsequent imprisonment” the statement read.

Emmanuel Ukoh