In a shocking turn of events, the recent arrest of Dele Farotimi has sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians, highlighting the ongoing tension in the country’s political and judicial systems. Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate, visited Ekiti State after prominent Nigerian lawyer Chief Afe Babalola, and later proceeded to meet with Dele Farotimi. While some speculated that Obi’s visit was aimed at diplomatic intervention, others were quick to criticize his actions.
Omoyele Sowore, a fierce advocate for political reform in Nigeria, condemned Obi’s visit in a passionate post on his X handle. Sowore likened Obi’s actions to forcing Rosa Parks to return to the back of the bus during the civil rights era in the United States, describing it as a “colossal injustice” to the struggle against judicial criminality in the country. He also expressed disappointment that the delegation, which was supposed to champion justice for Farotimi, had instead aligned with a system many Nigerians consider unjust.
This moment serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance that Nigerian leaders must strike between diplomacy and the defense of human rights. In a nation where protests like the #EndSARS movement and the #EndBadGovernance campaign have led to the loss of countless lives, the focus should be on peaceful resolutions, not violence.
The #EndSARS protests in October 2020, which were sparked by widespread outrage over police brutality, saw unarmed Nigerians gunned down by security forces at the Lekki tollgate. The brutal crackdown left scars on the collective psyche of the nation, with activists like DJ Switch going into exile after she bravely recorded the killings. The horrific events continue to haunt Nigerians, as many are still seeking justice for the lives lost that day.
The tragic loss of life during these protests raises crucial questions about how Nigeria’s leadership is handling dissent. It seems that, rather than resolving the country’s issues through dialogue, many leaders choose to suppress their citizens using security forces. The use of military and police officers to silence protesters only deepens the nation’s wounds and hampers progress.
Sowore’s criticism of Obi’s actions emphasizes the growing need for leaders to prioritize diplomacy and peaceful negotiations over violence. “Everything is not about violence,” Sowore stated, underscoring that peaceful advocacy is essential for true change. For Nigeria to progress, its leaders must be willing to confront injustice head-on without resorting to force.
The struggle for a better Nigeria continues, but it is clear that the path to a just society will not be paved by political compromises that only serve the interests of the powerful. Nigeria needs leaders who are ready to stand firm in the face of injustice, to champion human rights, and to fight for the dignity of every Nigerian citizen.
As we move forward, the challenge for Nigerian leaders is clear: will they choose diplomacy and peaceful dialogue, or will they continue to rely on violence and intimidation to maintain power? The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who will act with integrity and empathy, who will use their positions to heal the country, not divide it further.
