Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been granted bail by an Ekiti State Magistrate Court under stringent conditions, including a ₦30 million bond, three sureties with landed properties within the jurisdiction, and the surrender of his international passport.
Court Proceedings
- Plea: Dele Farotimi pleaded not guilty to a 14-count charge, including defamation against Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola.
- Defense Argument: His counsel argued that the charges were unknown to Ekiti State’s 2021 Criminal Law, seeking to strike them out.
- Conditions: Farotimi must refrain from media interviews.
Background
Dele Farotimi had been held in a correctional facility for over two weeks following his arrest, sparking widespread public and political outrage.
Public Reactions
- Calls for Release: Political figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Omoyele Sowore criticized the arrest, labeling it an attack on free speech.
- Civil Society Condemnation: Amnesty International and others demanded Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, decrying the suppression of dissenting voices.
- Femi Falana (SAN): The prominent lawyer condemned the arrest as illegal.
The case has been adjourned to February 13, 2025, while Farotimi’s supporters continue to advocate for justice.