Photo: Dele Farotimi
By Yemi Olakitan
Nigerian human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has been remanded in prison custody for allegedly defaming Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University. Farotimi was arraigned before an Ado-Ekiti Magistrate Court on Monday and pleaded not guilty to the 16-count charges.
Farotimi is accused of maligning and defaming Afe Babalola’s character in his recently published book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System”. Specifically, he allegedly claimed that Afe Babalola corrupted the judiciary and procured judgments in the Supreme Court, exposing him to hatred, contempt, ridicule, and damaging his hard-earned career.
Police prosecutor, Samson Osun, requested that Farotimi be remanded in prison custody pending further investigation and its outcome for the maintenance of security in the country. However, counsel to the defendant, Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the motion, arguing that the case is bailable and Farotimi is a known figure who poses no threat. Akeredolu emphasized that Farotimi is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Despite Akeredolu’s plea, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled in favor of remanding Farotimi in prison custody. The hearing has been adjourned until December 10.
