Nigerians Watched in Awe As Two Justice Systems operates In One Country as Dele Farotimi Who Was Accused Of Only Defamation is put In Handcuffs Vs Yahaya Bello Accused Of Stealing Over N80billion Walking Freely in same country wondering if there is anything more to study in the legal profession
Recall that Gani Fawehinmi was one of the fiercest supporters of Nuhu Ribadu as Chairman of EFCC over his anti-corruption war. Until former IGP Tafa Balogun was arraigned on corruption charges in 2005, it was like Ribadu and EFCC could do no wrong. However, on the day Tafa appeared in court in handcuffs, Gani was livid. He fired an open letter to Ribadu, deprecating such conduct of the EFCC. The EFCC had to issue a statement that it “deeply regretted” the action. Seeing Dele Farotimi in handcuffs in court, not facing capital offence but alleged cybercrime, is another low for the correctional services. I recall they did same to Agba Jalingo over his ill-fated trial in Calabar. Did that dissuade Jalingo from doing what he is known to do? No. I’m sure Dele Farotimi would have been amused. Some politicians who are facing over N100billion corruption charges were not put on handcuffs but someone facing cybercrime charges. If there is anyone or institution to be embarrassed, it should be those who put Dele in handcuffs. Oh, they forgot to also put him in leg chains. Phew.
Richard Akinnola 11
