Activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, arrived at an Ekiti Magistrate Court today amid a heavy security presence for an ongoing defamation case. The courtroom premises were surrounded by a large crowd of supporters, with chants of #RevolutionNow echoing across the area, creating a charged atmosphere.
The Magistrate and the prosecutor representing the Nigeria Police Force reportedly expressed concerns for their safety, citing the crowd’s presence as a potential security risk. Proceedings were briefly delayed as law enforcement struggled to manage the situation outside the courtroom.
Observers and activists have criticized the Magistrate and police for their stance, describing their concerns as “disgraceful” and calling for justice to prevail. The hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimiNOW has since gained traction on social media, amplifying calls for the dismissal of what many perceive as politically motivated charges against the outspoken activist.
Dele Farotimi’s legal battle has drawn significant public attention, with supporters urging the judiciary to uphold justice without intimidation or undue influence. As the case continues, the spotlight remains firmly on the integrity of the legal process and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Farotimi’s arrest was prompted by a petition filed by Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), a prominent lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
The case, with suit number MAD/1,476.C/2024, lists the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police as the complainant and Farotimi as the defendant.
Some of the charges read, “That you Dele Farotimi ‘m’ sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System” which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you stated at page IX of the book: “That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgment in the service of his clients” which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the Statements is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 59(1) of Criminal Code Act.”
The court is slated to give a ruling on the bail application filed by the human rights lawyer