Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been remanded in custody by the Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ado-Ekiti until December 20, pending a decision on his bail application. Farotimi faces a 14-count charge, amended during the latest hearing, for alleged defamation against legal luminary Aare Afe Babalola in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
At the hearing, Farotimi’s defence counsel, Taiwo Adeniji, argued for bail based on constitutional rights, emphasizing his client’s longstanding legal career and verifiable residence. He cited Section 36(5) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and Article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights to support his application.
The prosecuting counsel, Samson Osobu, opposed the application and introduced additional legal authorities to strengthen the case.
A notable moment in court occurred when Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, who initially represented Farotimi, was asked to step down after the prosecution challenged his role. This led to extensive legal arguments between both parties regarding the admissibility of Farotimi’s bail request.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, after listening to arguments for over two hours, adjourned the case, deferring the bail ruling to December 20.
Farotimi’s remand has garnered attention in legal and human rights circles, as his case highlights ongoing debates surrounding freedom of expression and defamation laws in Nigeria.
