A magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti, in Ekiti State, Nigeria, ordered the detention Wednesday of Lagos-based human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi following allegations he defamed Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and founder of Afe Babalola University.
Farotimi, arrested Tuesday at his Lagos chambers by Ekiti State Police Command officers, faces sixteen counts related to statements in his book “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.” The prosecution alleges Farotimi accused Babalola of corrupting the judiciary and procuring Supreme Court judgments, claims they say exposed the senior lawyer to “hatred, contempt, ridicule and damaged his hard-earned career.”
Police prosecutor Samson Osun requested Farotimi’s remand in prison custody pending investigation, citing security concerns. Defense counsel Dayo Akeredolu opposed the detention, arguing for bail on liberal terms, noting his client’s prominence and emphasizing the bailable nature of the alleged offense.
“The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Akeredolu told the court, describing Farotimi as a well-known figure posing no threat.
Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun rejected the bail application, ordering Farotimi held in custody. The case was adjourned until December 10 for further hearing.
