Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has been hit with 12 additional charges by the Nigerian Police Force under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015. The charges were filed at the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Friday.
Farotimi, who was initially arrested in Lagos on Tuesday and transferred to Ekiti State, had already appeared in court earlier in the week over allegations brought against him by Aare Afe Babalola (SAN). The new charges appear aimed at countering his bail application and prolonging his detention.
Specific Allegations
According to reports, the charges stem from comments Farotimi made during online interviews and public statements about his book titled “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.” The police allege that these remarks were defamatory and violated the Cybercrimes Act.
Some of the charges include:
- Count I: Farotimi allegedly stated during an online interview on the Mic On Podcast that “Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the judiciary,” a claim the police argue was false and intended to disrupt public peace. This is alleged to contravene Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act.
- Count II: He is accused of using the same interview to transmit information with the intention of bullying and harassing Afe Babalola, violating Section 24(a) of the Act.
- Count III: Farotimi allegedly mentioned during a press conference on December 2, 2024, that charges against him were influenced by Afe Babalola, a statement deemed by the police as defamatory.
Legal and Public Reaction
Farotimi’s arrest and the subsequent charges have sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and civil society organizations. Critics argue that the case highlights a pattern of using legal systems to suppress dissent and intimidate vocal activists.
Farotimi’s legal team has maintained his innocence and is reportedly preparing to contest both the validity of the charges and the alleged misuse of the Cybercrimes Act to silence criticism.
Context of the Case
The Cybercrimes Act, enacted in 2015, criminalizes various online offenses, including cyberbullying, harassment, and the spread of false information. However, activists have raised concerns over its potential misuse to target journalists, critics, and human rights defenders.
The case against Farotimi has drawn attention to the broader issues of freedom of speech and judicial independence in Nigeria.
