Prominent human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has been remanded in prison custody following allegations of defamation against legal icon and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.
Farotimi was arraigned on Monday before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti, facing 16 charges related to alleged defamatory remarks made in his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The accusations claim that the publication tarnished the reputation of Aare Afe Babalola.
During the court session, Farotimi pleaded not guilty to all charges. The police prosecutor, Samson Osun, argued for the activist’s remand in prison, citing the need for further investigation and maintaining public security.
However, Farotimi’s counsel, Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the motion, urging the court to grant bail on self-recognizance or lenient terms. He argued that the charges were bailable and emphasized the defendant’s status as a public figure who poses no security risk. “The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Akeredolu stated.
Presiding judge, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, ruled in favor of remanding Farotimi in prison custody, setting the next hearing date for December 10.
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