Why court sent Dele Farotimi Back To Prison
Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights lawyer and activist, has been remanded in prison custody until December 20, after the Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, adjourned his bail application.
This development stems from allegations of defamation against Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, in his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” where he accused Babalola of corrupting Supreme Court judges.
Farotimi was arrested in Lagos and transferred to Ekiti State, where he was arraigned on a 16-count charge.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The police prosecutor requested his remand in prison custody pending further investigation, while his counsel argued for bail on liberal terms, citing the presumption of innocence.
The case has sparked intense debate about freedom of speech, judicial integrity, and the role of the legal system in addressing defamation claims.
Critics argue that the prosecution constitutes an abuse of judicial process and an attempt to stifle dissenting voices
