An Ado-Ekiti Magistrate Court has ordered the remand of Lagos-based human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, over allegations of defamation against Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University.
Farotimi was arrested at his Lagos chamber on Tuesday by officers of the Ekiti State Police Command and subsequently arraigned on Wednesday.
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The charges stem from his book titled Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, in which he allegedly accused Afe Babalola of corrupting the judiciary and procuring judgments in the Supreme Court. The allegations reportedly exposed Babalola to “hatred, contempt, ridicule, and damaged his hard-earned career.”
The human rights lawyer pleaded not guilty to all 16 counts brought against him.
Police prosecutor Samson Osun requested the court to remand Farotimi in prison custody, arguing that further investigation was needed and that his detention was essential for maintaining security in the country.
However, Farotimi’s counsel, Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the motion, urging the court to grant his client bail on liberal terms or self-recognizance. He emphasized that the charges were bailable and that Farotimi, a well-known figure, posed no threat to public safety.
“The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Akeredolu argued.
Presiding Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled in favor of the prosecution and ordered Farotimi’s remand in prison custody. The case was adjourned to December 10 for further hearing.
