Abuja Law Firm Calls for US Visa Ban Against Nigerian Police Spokesman Over Alleged Rights Violations

Deji Adeyanju & Partners, a prominent Nigerian law firm, has formally petitioned the United States Embassy in Abuja, requesting immediate action to impose a visa ban on ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The firm’s petition accuses Adejobi of consistently engaging in human rights abuses, misuse of power, and suppression of free speech.

The petition, dated February 4, 2025, outlines multiple allegations of actions by ACP Adejobi that supposedly undermine fundamental democratic rights. The letter asserts that Adejobi’s public statements and actions demonstrate a clear disregard for human rights, especially freedom of speech. “ACP Adejobi’s conduct has repeatedly shown contempt for basic human rights, particularly the right to free expression,” the document states.

One incident highlighted in the petition occurred in March 2023, when Adejobi posted on social media that criticizing police officers should be considered a criminal offense. This statement followed public criticism of the police’s handling of a confrontation involving a famous Nigerian musician, which Adejobi reportedly condemned as “unruly” and inciting violence. Legal experts and human rights advocates strongly criticized his remarks, which were seen as an attack on free speech.

The petition also cites the case of Olamide Thomas, a nurse and activist who was arrested in December 2024 after voicing grievances against President Bola Tinubu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and ACP Adejobi on social media. Thomas’s arrest and subsequent detention sparked public outcry, with rights groups denouncing it as a direct assault on freedom of expression.

In another example, the letter details the arrest and detention of TikTok user Destiny Ekhorutomwem, who was accused of cyberbullying and cyberstalking under Adejobi’s orders. Ekhorutomwem faced extreme bail conditions requiring N2 billion in assets, and while in custody, he collapsed and was rushed to the National Hospital in Abuja. Despite his medical history, Adejobi allegedly denied him necessary medical care.

The letter also points to the broader consequences of Adejobi’s actions. “These public actions reveal ACP Adejobi’s opposition to free speech, a core democratic principle cherished by the United States,” the petition continues. Additionally, the firm accuses him of enabling police brutality, citing his refusal to hold officers accountable for misconduct.

“A recent report indicated that Adejobi defended the excessive use of force by police officers and rejected calls for accountability, further implicating him in the ongoing abuse of Nigerian citizens,” the petition states. The law firm argues that his consistent refusal to address police misconduct has fostered a culture of impunity within the Nigerian Police Force.

The firm’s appeal emphasizes that a visa restriction would send a strong message that individuals who stifle free speech and subvert democratic values are not welcome in the United States. They also request that the restriction apply to Adejobi’s immediate family, drawing on precedents in similar cases.

“We believe such action would send a clear and powerful message that those who suppress freedom of speech and undermine democratic principles have no place in the United States,” the petition concludes. “We have attached supporting documents for your review and will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates as necessary.”