In recent weeks, Nigeria has been abuzz with a troubling juxtaposition of events that underscores the danger of being a whistleblower or activist in the country. These incidents shed light on the growing risks for individuals who dare to speak truth to power and the unsettling disparity in how justice is applied.
One of the most striking examples is the recent defamation case involving renowned lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi. Known for his outspoken criticism of government policies and human rights abuses, Farotimi was shockingly handcuffed during his court appearance over an alleged defamation claim. The sight of a man who has dedicated his life to justice and advocacy being paraded in such a manner has sparked widespread outrage. Many see it as a chilling message to those who might consider standing against the powerful: dissent will not be tolerated.
Contrast this with the case of Ajayi, a man who openly confessed to the gruesome murder of his girlfriend. Despite the heinous nature of his crime and his admission of guilt, Ajayi was not subjected to the same indignities as Farotimi. He appeared unshackled in all the interviews he granted the media so far, a privilege that has raised questions about the selective application of justice in Nigeria.
This glaring disparity in treatment has ignited debates about the role of the judiciary and law enforcement in perpetuating systemic injustices. Why is an activist who speaks out against corruption and abuses treated more harshly than a confessed murderer? Or better still come to think about Yahaya Bello who was accused of looting public funds in billions. The message this sends is troubling: the system appears to prioritize silencing dissent over addressing actual crimes.
The dangers faced by whistleblowers and activists in Nigeria are not new. The case of David Hundeyin, a prominent investigative journalist, further illustrates this grim reality. Hundeyin, who has exposed numerous cases of corruption and misconduct, has faced threats to his life and livelihood. His investigations have made him a target, forcing him to seek safety outside the country. The Nigerian government’s inability—or unwillingness—to protect whistleblowers like Hundeyin only emboldens those who wish to silence them.
This culture of intimidation extends beyond activists to ordinary citizens. Many Nigerians are discouraged from reporting wrongdoing or speaking out for fear of retaliation. Laws meant to protect whistleblowers, such as the Whistleblower Protection Act, often exist more as theoretical frameworks than practical safeguards.
The implications of this climate of fear are profound. When whistleblowers and activists are treated as criminals, the societal checks on corruption, human rights abuses, and systemic failures are eroded. Nigeria’s democracy is undermined when its citizens are too afraid to demand accountability.
More Read
The cases of Dele Farotimi, David Hundeyin, and Ajayi reveal a disturbing trend that must not be ignored. The Nigerian government and judiciary must take urgent steps to restore public confidence in the justice system. This includes ensuring equal treatment under the law, protecting whistleblowers and activists, and holding perpetrators of actual crimes accountable.
Until these systemic issues are addressed, the risks of being a whistleblower or activist in Nigeria will remain alarmingly high. And with each voice silenced, the nation’s progress toward justice and accountability suffers a devastating blow.
