Just two weeks after the arrest of Mr. Dele Farotimi, a prominent member of the Obidient Movement, another key member, Mr. Joe Paul, has been arrested by the police on allegations of fraud.
Farotimi, a rights lawyer, was arrested by the Ekiti State Police Command in Lagos on December 3 and subsequently arraigned over defamation in his book, ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,’ where he accused several figures, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria Chief Afe Babalola, of compromising the Supreme Court.
In a similar development, Joe Paul, a radio host and rights activist, was arrested by the Zone 6 Police Zonal Command in Calabar, facing accusations of obtaining money under false pretenses and other related charges.
The Spokesman for the Command, SP Nelson Okpabi, dismissed claims that Paul’s arrest was politically motivated. Okpabi confirmed that Paul would appear in court on Monday, December 16, 2024.
In his statement, Okpabi clarified: “Mr. Osowo is currently in lawful custody at the Zone 6 Police facility following a court order. His detention relates to an ongoing investigation into allegations of fraud and obtaining money under false pretenses, as outlined in a petition filed by his cousin.”
Okpabi continued, “Contrary to misleading claims circulating online, the arrest is not based on trumped-up charges. The investigation is proceeding in accordance with due process and ethical standards. Mr. Osowo has been served with the charge sheet in the presence of his legal counsel, and he is scheduled to appear before the court on December 16, 2024.”
The police further emphasized their commitment to professionalism and transparency in handling this case, urging the public to disregard misinformation circulating on social media, particularly from Mr. Paul’s own social media platforms.
The investigation into Paul’s alleged fraudulent activities is ongoing, and his legal team continues to assert his innocence as the case progresses.