Nigerian comedian and activist Mr. Macaroni has expressed strong disapproval over the recent arrest of Nigerian lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on December 4, 2024, he shared his thoughts in a series of posts condemning what he described as a blatant misuse of power by the Nigerian police. His criticism focused on how the police allegedly serve as tools of oppression for the wealthy and influential, highlighting the troubling state of Nigeria’s justice system.
“Dele Farotimi wrote a book called Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, and the brazen impunity which the book seeks to address is playing right before our eyes,” he began. “How does one describe this insanity? Using the Police to abduct a person from one state to another state, the intimidation and harassment of his staff, seizure of their phone.”
Mr. Macaroni further questioned the legality and ethics of the police’s actions. He highlighted the irony in how numerous crimes were allegedly committed during the investigation of Farotimi, stating,
“How many crimes have been committed here while trying to investigate whether Mr Farotimi actually committed a crime? For how long will the Nigerian Police continue to allow themselves be used by the ‘High and Mighty’ to oppress Nigerians?” He pointed out that such actions undermine the justice system and embolden the powerful to treat civil disputes as criminal offenses simply to settle personal scores or advance political agendas.
Expanding on his critique, the comedian lamented how civil matters are increasingly criminalized due to political affiliations and influence.
He wrote, “We have opened the season to the rich and influential who can have a Nigerian arrested by the police because the person said that the big man’s fart stinks. Even people who should know better now abuse power because there are zero consequences for these actions.”
Mr. Macaroni’s words reflect a growing frustration among Nigerians who feel the justice system often protects the wealthy at the expense of ordinary citizens.
The activist also decried the systemic corruption that allows the guilty to escape accountability while the innocent suffer. “Our system of corruption allows the innocent man who hasn’t been proven guilty of committing any crime suffer while the guilty who commits numerous crimes trying to prove that the innocent man committed a crime roams freely. TUEH!” he exclaimed.
This statement underscored his belief that the absence of consequences for misuse of power perpetuates a cycle of injustice.
Mr. Macaroni’s reaction has resonated with many Nigerians who share similar concerns about the state of the country’s justice system. His outcry not only called for accountability but also urged citizens to recognize the dangers of supporting actions that criminalize civil disputes.
His remarks are a reminder of the critical need for reforms in the justice system to ensure fairness and equality for all Nigerians, regardless of their social or economic status.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Macaroni reinforced his commitment to speaking out against injustice, regardless of the backlash. “This is not just about Dele Farotimi,” he implied.
“It is about every Nigerian who has ever been silenced, intimidated, or oppressed. Until we build a system where justice is truly blind, this cycle of impunity will continue.” His words serve as a powerful call to action for both citizens and leaders to work towards a more equitable society.
