Court Bars Dele Farotimi from Publishing Controversial Book on Nigeria’s Criminal Justice System
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has issued a restraining order against human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, prohibiting the publication, sale, advertisement, and distribution of his contentious book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
Justice Peter Kekemeke granted the interim injunction after reviewing an ex-parte application filed by Kehinde Ogunwumiju, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and managing partner at Afe Babalola’s law firm. The court order extends to Farotimi’s agents, publishers, distributors, and any other individual or entity involved in disseminating the book in any format, whether physical or digital, including on social media platforms.
The injunction is effective pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction, which was filed on December 6, 2024.
Seizure of Physical Copies Ordered
As part of the ruling, Justice Kekemeke directed security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, State Security Service (SSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to confiscate all physical copies of the book wherever they may be found. These agencies are required to provide a compliance affidavit within 72 hours of receiving the ruling.
Parallel Injunction in Oyo State
In a related development, the Oyo State High Court also issued an interim order against Farotimi, barring him or anyone acting on his behalf from printing or distributing the book. This order was secured by Adebayo Adenipekun, another Senior Advocate of Nigeria from the Afe Babalola law firm, through an ex-parte application dated December 9, 2024.
Justice Mufutau Adegbola of the Oyo State High Court granted the interim injunction and directed that Farotimi’s legal representatives be notified. The case was adjourned to January 7, 2025, for the hearing of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction.
Controversy Surrounding the Book
Farotimi’s Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System has stirred significant debate, with critics arguing that the book contains unflattering portrayals and allegations against the nation’s justice system and key legal professionals. While supporters see it as a bold critique of systemic flaws, detractors, including senior members of the legal profession, have described its contents as defamatory and potentially damaging to the reputation of individuals and institutions.
Legal Implications
The twin court orders represent a significant clampdown on the book’s dissemination, signaling that any further publication or distribution would be met with legal consequences. The case also raises broader questions about the balance between free speech and the protection of reputations within Nigeria’s judicial system.
As the legal battles unfold, attention will turn to the January 2025 hearings, where both courts will address the substantive arguments for and against the continuation of the restraining orders.
