Kehinde Fajobi
A Magistrate’s Court in Ado Ekiti has remanded human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi in a correctional centre over alleged defamation of Chief Afe Babalola in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
Presiding Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ordered Farotimi’s remand following his arraignment by the police on a 16-count charge of defamation.
The lawyer pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Police prosecutor Samson Osun requested the defendant’s remand pending further investigation.
However, Farotimi’s counsel, Barrister Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the request, urging the court to grant bail on liberal terms and self-recognisance.
Akeredolu argued, “The case is bailable, and the suspect is a known figure who poses no threat. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.”
Magistrate Adeosun declined the bail application, remanded Farotimi in custody, and adjourned the case to December 10 for the continuation of the hearing.