Renowned activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi [/b]has been granted bail after appearing at the Ekiti Magistrate Court on Friday for the hearing on a defamation suit filed against him.
The case, filed by the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police on behalf of Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), accuses Farotimi of publishing defamatory statements in his book, *Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.*
The court premises were fortified with law enforcement agents as Farotimi faced charges, including allegations that he falsely claimed in his book that Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to secure a fraudulent judgment for his clients.
The charges, under Section 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act, assert that the statements could incite public fear and disturb the peace. The case has drawn attention because of the nature of the allegations, as well as the public profiles of both Farotimi and Babalola.
Presiding over the case, Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun granted Farotimi bail on Friday under strict conditions. These include providing two sureties, one of whom must be a house owner in Ado-Ekiti, and submitting his international passport. The court also imposed restrictions on Farotimi, including a ban on granting interviews to the media, whether electronic or print, until the substantive case is resolved.
The hearing has drawn significant public interest due to Farotimi’s reputation as a vocal advocate for justice and accountability. Known for his outspoken views on legal and societal issues, his involvement in the case has sparked debates across various platforms. As the case proceeds, legal teams on both sides are preparing to present their arguments in court, setting the stage for what promises to be an important and closely followed trial.
