The caucus of the Labour Party (LP) in the House of Representatives has called for judicial neutrality, impartiality and fair hearing in the contentious defamation case against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi by Chief Afe Babalola, SAN.
The caucus said it is deeply concerned over the growing trend of anti-democratic activities and developments that undermine Nigeria’s civil governance.
Referencing the recent controversial arrest and detention of Farotimi, who is facing allegations of defamation initiated by Babalola, leader of the LP Caucus, Hon. Afam Ogene, in a statement on Thursday, said 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”, Ogene said in the statement.
