A Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, has remanded prominent human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, in a correctional facility following his arraignment by the police.
Farotimi is facing charges related to the defamation of the character of esteemed legal figure, Chief Afe Babalola, in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
Farotimi, who is known for his outspoken advocacy on human rights issues, pleaded not guilty to all 16 counts against him.
During the court proceedings, the police prosecutor, Samson Osun, requested that Farotimi be remanded in custody pending further investigation into the allegations.
In his defense, Farotimi’s legal representative, Barrister Dayo Akeredolu, strongly opposed the remand request. Akeredolu argued that Farotimi should be granted bail on liberal terms or even on self-recognizance, citing that the case is bailable.
He further emphasized that Farotimi, being a well-known and reputable public figure, posed no flight risk or threat to public order. Akeredolu also reminded the court that Farotimi is presumed innocent until proven guilty, in accordance with the principles of justice.
Despite the defense’s argument, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun rejected the bail application. The magistrate ordered that Farotimi be remanded in the correctional center and adjourned the case for further hearing on December 10, 2024.
