A Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti has ordered the remand of Human Rights Attorney and activist, Dele Farotimi, following accusations of defaming prominent legal figure Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, the founder of Afe Babalola University.
Farotimi is alleged to have tarnished Babalola’s reputation through statements made in his recently published book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
Farotimi was arraigned before the court on Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty to all sixteen charges leveled against him. Police prosecutor, Samson Osun, requested that the activist be kept in custody while investigations into the matter continue. Osun argued that this was necessary to maintain public safety amidst the ongoing case.
However, Farotimi’s lawyer, Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the request, urging the court to grant bail on lenient conditions, citing Farotimi’s prominent status and the presumption of innocence. Akeredolu emphasized that the activist posed no flight risk and should be released pending trial.
Despite this, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled in favor of the prosecution’s request, remanding Farotimi in custody. The judge scheduled the next hearing for December 10, when further proceedings will take place.
The case has sparked significant attention, as it involves a high-profile legal figure and raises questions about freedom of expression and the limits of defamation within the context of activism and public discourse in Nigeria.
