Dele Farotimi, a human rights lawyer, has been granted bail of ₦50 million by an Ekiti State Magistrate Court following his arraignment over defamation charges. The charges stem from allegations made against Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) in a book authored by Farotimi.
Omoyele Sowore, the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in 2023, confirmed the bail terms via his X handle on Monday, noting that Farotimi is required to present a surety with landed property. “The case has been adjourned to January 29, 2025,” Sowore added.
The Allegations
Farotimi is accused of making defamatory statements about Babalola in his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. Babalola’s lawyers argue that the claims are baseless and calculated to harm the elder statesman’s image.
The police, acting on Babalola’s petition, arrested Farotimi in Lagos and arraigned him in Ekiti within 24 hours. The defense team successfully applied for bail, although earlier requests for immediate release were denied.
Babalola’s Position
Chief Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, insists on evidence to substantiate the claims. “If Mr. Farotimi can prove his assertions, he will be free,” said Owoseni Ajayi, one of Babalola’s lawyers and a former Attorney General of Ekiti State. “However, false accusations meant to tarnish reputations cannot be ignored.”
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Ajayi also warned against misleading narratives, emphasizing that defamatory remarks violate Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act, which penalizes false publications likely to cause fear or harm.
Legal and Public Reactions
Babalola’s lawyers have called for the confiscation of Farotimi’s book pending the outcome of the trial. They also urged Nigerians to verify facts before forming opinions. “This case is not just about Aare Afe Babalola,” Ajayi explained. “It’s about ensuring that justice is available to everyone, regardless of their status.”
Meanwhile, Farotimi’s supporters have criticized the legal proceedings, calling them an attempt to suppress dissent. The human rights lawyer has yet to respond directly to the allegations but has previously defended his right to free expression.
The trial, set to resume in January 2025, is expected to draw significant public attention. Both sides are gearing up for a legal battle that could set precedents for defamation cases in Nigeria.
