A Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti has denied bail to human rights activist Dele Farotimi in a defamation case involving Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti.
The case has been adjourned to December 20.
Presiding Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled on Tuesday that the bail application submitted by Farotimi was irregular and incompetent, as argued by the police counsel, Samson Osobu.
Farotimi was initially arrested in Lagos last week and arraigned on defamation charges after a petition by Babalola. The allegations stem from claims in Farotimi’s book, *Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where he accused Babalola of influencing Supreme Court justices.
While the Magistrate Court denied him bail, the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti on Monday granted Farotimi conditional bail on a separate cybercrime charge filed by the Inspector General of Police.
Farotimi’s lawyer, Ralph Nwoke, explained, “He was granted bail of N50 million with a surety of like sum who must own landed property in Ekiti and reside in the state. His travel passport must also be submitted to the court.”
Nwoke added, “We are working to meet these conditions and secure his release as soon as possible.”
However, the legal battle continues, as Farotimi’s defence team challenges the charges. Another lawyer, Ayodele Ademiluyi, argued that “criminal defamation” is not recognized under Ekiti State law.
The controversy has sparked reactions. The Justice for Afe Babalola Legacy (JABL) group called for accountability, stating, “Dele Farotimi must provide evidence for his claims against Afe Babalola or face the law,” said Rotimi Opeyeoluwa, JABL’s Publicity Secretary.
Community leader Chief Michael Osaloni warned against planned protests in support of Farotimi, saying, “Those intending to stage protests should avoid Ekiti or be ready to face the consequences.”
