A Magistrate court in Ado Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, has detained human rights attorney Dele Farotimi on charges of defamation against Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD). Farotimi was brought to court by the Ekiti State Police Command for his book titled “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” in which he accused Babalola of corrupting the judiciary and influencing Supreme Court judgements.
Farotimi pleaded not guilty to all sixteen charges. Police prosecutor Samson Osun requested that the defendant be held in prison custody while further investigations are conducted, highlighting the need for public safety.
The defendant’s attorney, Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the request for remand, arguing that Farotimi should be granted bail on lenient terms and based on self-recognition, as the case is bailable and the defendant is a prominent individual who poses no threat. He emphasized that Farotimi is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
After considering the arguments, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ordered Farotimi to remain in custody and scheduled the next hearing for December 10.
