Dele Farotimi tearfully thanks Nigerians for support after prison release
Political activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi has tearfully expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support following his release from Ekiti prison.
His arrest followed defamation allegations made by prominent lawyer Afe Babalola, stemming from Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, which critiques systemic issues within Nigeria’s legal framework.
Days after being granted bail of ₦50 million, Farotimi appreciated Nigerians for rallying behind him during his legal battles, emphasizing the power of unity and collective action.
“We stopped being human because we became Nigerians. They divided us, and we fell for it. Because you wouldn’t see me as a Yoruba man, you spoke for me; because you wouldn’t see me as a Christian, you spoke for me,” he said, with tears streaming down his face.
Farotimi credited Nigerians’ solidarity for ensuring his release and preventing what he described as the harsh consequences of a fractured system.
“Because you spoke, Nigeria couldn’t happen to me; that is why Nigeria couldn’t happen to me. You found your voices; and in our collective, you couldn’t be silenced,” he added.
The video has since gone viral, with many praising Farotimi for highlighting the need for unity among Nigerians, transcending ethnic and religious divides.
Farotimi, known for his vocal criticisms of societal and political injustices, has gained widespread support for his advocacy. His arrest and subsequent release have sparked conversations about freedom of speech and the importance of collective activism in Nigeria.
As the story continues to gain traction, many see Farotimi’s ordeal as a rallying point for stronger efforts to address injustices and foster unity in the country.
Watch the video below …
Dele Farotimi was in tears earlier this morning narrating how the collective voice of Nigerians who spoke up for him saved his life. This video is too emotional 💔
Nigeria will bring you tears when you think of Nigeria can be if Nigerians are undivided. pic.twitter.com/6vuS2ncVao
— #OurFavOnlineDoc 🩺 🇬🇧 (@OurFavOnlineDoc) December 29, 2024
