Dele Farotimi Denied Bail in Mysterious Defamation Case

Dele Farotimi, a human rights activist and lawyer, has been denied bail by an Ado-Ekiti Magistrate Court in a defamation case brought by the Inspector General of Police. Farotimi faces multiple charges for statements in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, where he alleged that Chief Afe Babalola, a renowned legal figure, influenced the Supreme Court to secure biased judgments.

Arrested in Lagos, Farotimi was transferred to Ekiti and charged with publishing defamatory claims intended to harm Babalola’s reputation. The police argue that the accusations amount to cyberbullying and defamation under Nigerian law, necessitating his detention. Despite pleas from his legal team, led by Peter Akeredolu, to grant bail on self-recognizance due to his health and professional standing, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled against bail, citing insufficient grounds for discretion. The case has been adjourned until December 20, 2024.The charges have sparked criticism.

Omoyele Sowore, activist and former presidential candidate, labeled the proceedings a misuse of the justice system to stifle dissent. Sowore and others have called for Farotimi’s immediate release, highlighting concerns about press freedom and judicial overreach.

This case underscores tensions in Nigeria’s legal system, where allegations of judicial compromise and the protection of influential figures frequently dominate headlines. Farotimi’s arrest and subsequent remand highlight broader debates about free speech and accountability in the country.