A lawyer representing Nigerian comedian Oguche Ugbede Kenneth, popularly known as Sarkin-Dariya, has raised concerns over his client’s safety amid what he described as threats following the comedian’s satirical skits, as reports indicate the Federal Government has moved against the entertainer over his content.
The statement comes amid growing attention surrounding Sarkin-Dariya’s satirical skits, which frequently comment on governance and other issues of national interest.
A statement issued on Tuesday by human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, who said he was acting on the instruction of Sarkin-Dariya, disclosed that the comedian had become the target of a series of threats after his recent satirical and comedic commentaries on issues of public concern affecting Nigerians.
Adeyanju maintained that his client had, at all times, exercised his constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of expression through lawful means, arguing that the threats directed at him were a matter of serious concern.
The lawyer consequently placed the relevant authorities on notice, insisting that they have a constitutional obligation to protect the comedian from any harm.
“We act as Solicitors to Mr. Oguche Ugbede Kenneth, popularly known as Sarkin Dariya, on whose instruction we act,” the statement read.
“Our attention has been drawn to a series of threats directed at our client following his recent satirical and comedic commentaries on issues of public concern affecting Nigerians.
“Our client has, at all material times, exercised his constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of expression through lawful means. The threats against him therefore constitute a matter of serious concern.”
Adeyanju warned that the authorities would be held accountable should anything happen to the comedian as a result of the alleged threats or any failure to provide adequate protection.
“Accordingly, we place the relevant authorities on notice that they have a constitutional duty to ensure our client’s safety and security. Should any harm befall him as a result of these threats or any failure to provide adequate protection, all those found to be responsible, whether directly or indirectly, will be held fully accountable in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The lawyer expressed confidence that the appropriate authorities would take the necessary steps to guarantee Sarkin-Dariya’s safety.
