A Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti has ordered the remand of human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, in prison custody until December 10, 2024.
The case revolves around an alleged defamation claim brought against him by Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University.
Farotimi is accused of defaming Babalola in his recently published book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The allegations led to his arrest in Lagos by operatives of the Ekiti State Police Command, sparking widespread debate about freedom of expression and the limits of public discourse.
Platinumpost reports that Farotimi was arraigned before the court this morning September 4, for allegedly publishing a book “Nigeria and it’s Criminal Justice System’ where he alleged that Babalola corrupted the Judiciary and procured judgements in the Supreme Court there by “exposing him to hatred, contempt, ridicule and damage his hard earned career.”
The suspect Dele Farotimi pleaded not guilty to all the sixteen count charge.
Police prosecutor, Samson Osun called for the remand of the suspect in prison custody pending further investigation and it’s outcome for the maintenance of security in the country.
Counsel to the defendant, Dayo Akeredolu opposed the remand call and pleaded with the court to admit the defendant to bail on very liberal terms and on self recognisance because the case at hand is bailable and the suspect is a known figure who is not constituting any threat . He said the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
In his ruling, the presiding judge, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun remanded the suspect in prison custody and adjourned the case till December 10.