A magistrates’ court in Ado, Ekiti has ordered the remand of prominent human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi in a correctional facility over allegations of defamation.
Presiding Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun issued the remand order during Farotimi’s arraignment on Tuesday. The police charged Farotimi with 16 counts of defamation, citing remarks in his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System that allegedly maligned the reputation of renowned legal scholar Chief Afe Babalola.
Farotimi pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Police prosecutor Samson Osun argued for Farotimi’s detention pending further investigation into the allegations.
However, Farotimi’s counsel, Dayo Akeredolu, strongly opposed the motion, urging the court to grant bail either on liberal terms or on self-recognizance.
Akeredolu highlighted that the charges were bailable and argued that Farotimi, a well-known public figure, posed no threat to the investigation or society.
He emphasized the principle of presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
Despite the defence’s plea, Magistrate Adeosun denied bail, citing undisclosed reasons, and adjourned the case to December 10 for further hearing.
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