Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights lawyer and activist, has been remanded in prison for allegedly defaming Aare Afe Babalola, a renowned legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University.
Farotimi’s troubles stem from his recently published book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” which allegedly maligned and defamed Babalola’s character.
Farotimi was arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti, where he pleaded not guilty to all 16 count charges.
The police prosecutor, Samson Osun, requested that Farotimi be remanded in prison custody pending further investigation.
However, Dele Farotimi’s counsel, Dayo Akeredolu, opposed this motion, arguing that the case is bailable and that Farotimi is a well-known figure who poses no threat.
Despite Akeredolu’s pleas, the presiding judge, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, ruled in favor of the prosecution, remanding Farotimi in prison custody until December 10.
This decision has sparked concerns about the implications of this case on freedom of expression and the rights of activists in Nigeria.
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