Human Rights Lawyer, Deji Adeyanju has condemned the imprisonment of a journalist in Kano State for allegedly insulting Governor Yusuf on Facebook.
While the human rights lawyer condemned the arrest, he also called for the immediate release of the arrested journalist.
In a statement Adeyanju wrote and sent to Allnews.ng, he stated: “I strongly condemn the arrest and remand of journalist Muktar Dahiru for exercising his right to free speech on social media. The Kano State Government’s actions are a blatant attack on press freedom and a clear attempt to silence critics.”
“A free press is the cornerstone of democracy, and journalists play a vital role in holding those in power accountable. I urge the authorities to immediately release Dahiru and drop all charges against him.”
“The use of criminal defamation laws to stifle dissenting voices is unacceptable and undermines Nigeria’s democratic principles. I stand in solidarity with Dahiru and all journalists who face persecution for doing their jobs.”
Meanwhile, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the newly sworn-in President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has appointed Deji Adeyanju, to the newly established Citizens’ Liberties Committee, CLC.
This announcement was made during Osigwe’s inaugural speech at the recent NBA conference in Lagos.
Osigwe, who succeeded Yakubu Maikyau, took the oath of office on Thursday, officially beginning his tenure as the leader of the prestigious legal body.
Elected in July 2024, Osigwe aims to continue the work of his predecessor, whose term concluded at the conference.
In his inaugural address, Osigwe emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the NBA remains a powerful voice in Nigeria’s democratic process. He stated that under his leadership, the association will not shy away from holding both Federal and State Governments accountable.
