JUST IN: Ex-minister condemns prison authorities for handcuffing activist Dele Farotimi

Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has criticized the Nigerian Correctional Service for what she termed the gross absurdity of handcuffing activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi.

In a series of tweets, Ezekwesili questioned the necessity of such treatment in a case she described as a civil matter between Farotimi and Chief Afe Babalola.

She expressed dismay at the growing distrust in the judiciary, which she attributed to its perceived capture by the political class.

“What crime is the Nigeria Government or Police prosecuting Dele Farotimi for at this stage? This reckless desecration of public institutions under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not sustain. Never,” she tweeted.

Ezekwesili called on the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunde-Ojo, to explain the rationale behind the handcuffs and ensure such “anomalies” are not repeated by overzealous officers.

She urged the authorities to respect constitutional rights and allow the matter to proceed as a proper judicial process for addressing allegations of defamation.

She concluded with a call for restraint, wisdom, and respect for citizens’ rights, stating that “enough is enough.”