Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, was arraigned before an Ekiti State Magistrate Court this Wednesday morning.
Farotimi, arrested on Tuesday in Lagos, was brought to court around 10:25 am by police officers.
The lawyer faces a 16-count charge of defamation against prominent legal figure, Aare Afe Babalola SAN. He is accused of defaming Babalola’s character in his recently published book titled Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. Farotimi’s arrest by Ekiti State Police follows a complaint filed by Babalola against the activist.
The court proceedings have sparked interest due to their potential legal implications for freedom of speech. Farotimi, known for his activism, has yet to enter a plea in court regarding the charges. His supporters have voiced concerns over the motivations behind the defamation charges, calling it politically motivated. The case highlights ongoing tensions between human rights advocates and powerful legal figures in Nigeria’s political landscape.
