Ado-Ekiti, Dec. 21 — A magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti has granted N30 million bail to Dele Farotimi, a renowned human rights activist, amidst allegations of criminal defamation. The ruling, delivered on Friday by Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, includes stringent conditions to ensure compliance throughout the trial.
The court directed Farotimi to provide two sureties, both of whom must be respected members of society with verifiable means of identification. Additionally, the activist was ordered to surrender his international passport and was explicitly barred from granting media interviews for the duration of the case.
The allegations against Farotimi, brought forward by the police, revolve around claims made in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. In the book, the activist allegedly defamed legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Afe Babalola, prompting the defamation charges.
Speaking on the case, legal analysts described the bail conditions as reflective of the court’s intent to balance the defendant’s right to freedom with the necessity of ensuring a fair trial. However, the restriction on media engagements has sparked debates among human rights advocates, with many viewing it as an infringement on freedom of expression.
Farotimi, a vocal critic of systemic injustice, has gained national recognition for his campaigns advocating for accountability in governance and justice reforms. His book, now central to the allegations, critiques the perceived failings of Nigeria’s criminal justice system and has been widely discussed in legal and academic circles.
Supporters of Farotimi have expressed solidarity with the activist, arguing that the charges are an attempt to stifle critical discourse on issues of national importance. “This is a targeted attack on free speech and intellectual engagement,” a close ally of Farotimi stated, adding that the activist remains resolute in his pursuit of justice and reform.
The court adjourned the case to a later date for further proceedings, during which both the prosecution and defense will present their arguments. In the meantime, Farotimi’s legal team has reiterated their client’s commitment to complying with the court’s directives while maintaining his innocence regarding the allegations.
This case underscores the growing tension between advocacy and defamation laws in Nigeria, as legal experts and the public alike debate where the line should be drawn between criticism and criminal liability. As proceedings continue, all eyes will remain on the Ado-Ekiti court to see how it navigates this complex legal and societal issue.
Farotimi’s case is expected to reignite discussions on freedom of expression, the rights of activists, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
