Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been remanded in prison over alleged defamation of Afe Babalola. The case has sparked nationwide outrage, with many calling for justice and defending free speech in Nigeria.
Prominent human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has been remanded in prison custody following allegations of defamation against Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, a respected legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University. The development has sparked widespread condemnation from Nigerians, including notable public figures and legal professionals, who accuse the Nigerian Police and Afe Babalola of silencing dissent.
Farotimi’s arrest stems from his recently published book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, in which he allegedly criticized Afe Babalola and the broader justice system. The police, acting on a petition reportedly filed by Babalola’s legal team, arrested Farotimi and arraigned him on December 2, 2024, before a Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti.
Charged with 16 counts of defamation, Farotimi pleaded not guilty, maintaining that his book reflects factual accounts and constructive criticism aimed at improving Nigeria’s legal system.
During the court session, the police prosecutor, Samson Osun, argued for Farotimi’s remand, citing national security concerns. Osun claimed that allowing Farotimi to remain free could incite unrest, given the controversial nature of his publication.
However, defense counsel Dayo Akeredolu opposed the prosecution’s plea, emphasizing that defamation is a bailable offense. Akeredolu requested bail on liberal terms, pointing out that Farotimi is a prominent figure who poses no flight risk. “The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Akeredolu reminded the court.
Despite the defense’s appeal, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled in favor of the prosecution, remanding Farotimi in prison and adjourning the case until December 10, 2024.
The decision to remand Farotimi has ignited a storm of criticism across Nigeria, with activists, legal experts, and ordinary citizens condemning the arrest as an attack on free speech.
Femi Falana, SAN, a prominent human rights lawyer, described the arrest as “a dangerous precedent aimed at stifling intellectual discourse.” He added, “We must protect the right to critique public institutions and individuals, no matter how powerful they are.”
Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie also weighed in, calling the situation “a gross misuse of power.” She stated, “Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive if we criminalize honest criticism.”
On social media, the hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimi has trended, with many Nigerians calling for his immediate release. Protesters have gathered in major cities, urging the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to intervene and questioning Afe Babalola’s involvement in the arrest.
Critics argue that this case could set a troubling precedent for freedom of expression in Nigeria. “Today it’s Farotimi; tomorrow it could be any other Nigerian who dares to speak truth to power,” noted public affairs analyst Dr. Olufemi Ojo.
Amnesty International Nigeria has also issued a statement, expressing concern over the increasing use of defamation laws to silence dissent. “We call on the Nigerian authorities to uphold human rights and ensure that justice prevails,” the organization declared.
As Nigerians await the December 10 hearing, the spotlight remains on the judiciary and its commitment to justice and free speech. Legal observers are hopeful that the court will act impartially, considering the wider implications of this case on Nigeria’s democratic values.
