Nigerians announce date for nationwide protests

A nationwide protest is set to take place across Nigeria on December 10, 2024, over the continued detention of human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi.

Farotimi’s detention follows an alleged defamation charge after his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System”, accused Senior Advocate of Nigeria Afe Babalola of compromising the Supreme Court.

Farotimi was on Tuesday arrested by the police at his Lagos residence and was whisked away to Ekiti where he faced charges.

On Wednesday, a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti declined Farotimi’s bail application and ordered that he be remanded in prison until December 10.

Farotimi’s arrest has been condemned by human rights organizations, activists and opposition politicians.

Nigerians will take to the streets on Tuesday, December 10 to demand his release.

The protests, organized by the Take It Back Movement will target key locations in Lagos, Abuja, and Ekiti, with a parallel demonstration planned in London.

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore said demonstrators in Abuja are expected to converge at the Federal Ministry of Justice at 7:00 AM.

The protest will extend to the Federal High Court Complex and the Police Headquarters.

Protesters in Lagos will gather at the Afe Babalola Chambers, while in Ekiti, activities are scheduled to occur at the Police Headquarters in Ado-Ekiti.

In London, demonstrators will meet at King’s College Campus to amplify global solidarity.