Dele Farotimi Denied Bail After Police Accusations
Dele Farotimi, the prominent Nigerian human rights lawyer, was remanded in custody by an Ekiti State Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. The court adjourned Farotimi’s bail application after the police opposed it, accusing him of intimidating witnesses in his case. Farotimi faces defamation charges for allegedly slandering Senior Advocate Aare Afe Babalola and pleaded not guilty. The police argued that Farotimi’s actions could interfere with the ongoing investigation, leading to the adjournment.
Defamation Charges and Allegations
Farotimi’s arrest stems from accusations of defamation related to his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. The police claim that the book contained defamatory statements against Babalola, a respected legal figure. The arrest occurred after Farotimi was taken from Lagos to Ekiti last week, where he was charged. His legal team argues that the charges are unfounded and that the activist lawyer is entitled to bail, given his long career and stable background.
Opposition to Bail Application
At Tuesday’s court session, Farotimi’s lawyer, Taiwo Adedeji, presented a strong case for bail, emphasizing that his client had a clean record, was a respected legal professional, and had no intention of fleeing. However, the police prosecutor, Samson Osodu, strongly opposed the application, asserting that Farotimi could influence the witnesses in the case. He also pointed out Farotimi’s outspoken criticism of the judicial system, suggesting that this posed a risk to the integrity of the case.
Court Adjournment and Awaited Ruling
Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun adjourned the case until December 20 to rule on Farotimi’s bail application after hearing both sides. This delay has increased public scrutiny, raising concerns about judicial fairness and the treatment of legal challengers.
Protest Plans and Police Warnings
The case has sparked outrage within civil society, with protests planned by groups supporting Farotimi. However, a demonstration organized by the Take it Back Movement in Ekiti State failed to take place on Tuesday, despite earlier announcements. Local leaders, including Chief Michael Osaloni, had warned against protests, while the police reiterated their stance on maintaining order, discouraging any actions that could disrupt public peace.
Political Reactions and Public Outcry
The political ramifications of Farotimi’s detention have been felt widely. Omoyele Sowore, a political activist, criticized the decision to delay the bail ruling, calling for Farotimi’s immediate release. On the other hand, Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, visited Afe Babalola in an attempt to mediate on the matter, a move which Sowore condemned. This controversy has underscored the growing tensions between legal reformers and powerful figures in Nigeria’s political and judicial systems.
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