Toba Owojaiye reportingÂ
Abuja, Nigeria
In a latest development in the case of Dele Farotimi, the Ekiti State Magistrate Court has denied his bail application and ordered his remand in custody. Farotimi, a human rights lawyer, faces a 16-count charge related to allegations of defamation against Chief Afe Babalola in the case, referenced as suit number MAD/1,476.C/2024, filed by the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, with Farotimi as the defendant.
Truth Live News gathered that the accusations stem from claims in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where he alleged corruption in the judiciary. The case has been adjourned to December 10, 2024.
In response, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) condemned the arrest, arguing that defamation should be treated as a civil matter rather than a criminal offense, aligning with global practices. They also criticized the reported invasion of Farotimi’s law firm, calling it a breach of constitutional rights and legal independence. The NBA has demanded his immediate release and a thorough investigation into the handling of the case.
Key figures, including Peter Obi and Omoyele Sowore, have also spoken out, describing the arrest as an assault on democracy and freedom of expression.