A magistrates’ court in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, has granted ₦30m bail to lawyer and human rights activist Dele Farotimi. The decision was delivered on Friday by Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun during a hearing of Farotimi’s bail application.
The court set stringent bail conditions, including the provision of two responsible sureties and the surrender of Farotimi’s international passport. Magistrate Adeosun also prohibited the activist from granting media interviews while the case remains ongoing.
Farotimi’s legal troubles stem from a petition filed by elder statesman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Afe Babalola. The petition alleges that Farotimi defamed Babalola in his recently-published book, leading to his arraignment by the Ekiti Police Command.
The case has drawn significant public interest, with reactions from various groups. The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, recently called for an end to Farotimi’s defamation trial, emphasizing the need for free speech and due process. However, pro-Babalola groups have urged parties to focus on facts while addressing the allegations.
Farotimi, a prominent human rights advocate, has not publicly commented on the case due to the media restriction imposed by the court. His supporters, however, continue to rally behind him, emphasizing his long-standing commitment to social justice and accountability.
The next hearing date for the case is yet to be announced.
