By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has condemned in strongest terms the arrest and detention of human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, by the Nigeria Police in Ekiti State.

The group said the action not only undermines the principles of the rule of law but also jeopardizes his inherent human rights and freedom of expression which is crucial to the sustenance of nation?s democracy.

In a statement issued on Friday by its national Chairman, Prince Pwang Pam Jnr, expressed dismay over the crude methods employed in his apprehension represent a blatant disregard for justice, fairness and human dignity.

The statement reads: ?It is disconcerting that instances of coercion and harassment persist in a nation that purports to be dedicated to democratic principles.

?Dele Farotimi?s detention on grounds of alleged defamation by the Police constitutes an abuse of power by constituted authority.

?The complainant in the person of Barrister Afe Babalola SAN should live by the demands of his profession and stop using agents of State to terrorize citizens.

?Legal experts have pointed out that defamation has been decriminalized in Lagos, the state from which Mr. Farotimi was unceremoniously apprehended.

?This deplorable incident serves as a grim reminder that Nigeria still has a long way to go in building a just and fair democratic society. COPDEM strongly urges the police to respect the rule of law and uphold the foundational principles upon which our legal system is built.?

COPDEM called for the immediate release of Mr. Farotimi within the next 24 hours, failing which Nigerians will be mobilised to begin mass protest against the government and Afe Babalola.