The Ado-Ekiti Magistrate Court has denied bail to Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights lawyer, who is facing charges related to cybercrime.
Farotimi was arrested following a petition from well-known legal figure Afe Babalola (SAN).
Farotimi was accused of publishing false statements in his book ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’, which is said to have tarnished Babalola’s reputation.
According to the charges, Farotimi’s book, which was widely circulated, contained damaging claims against Babalola and his law firm.
In particular, the book accused Babalola and other lawyers of influencing the Supreme Court in a corrupt manner.
The court argued that these statements, which were allegedly false, could cause public fear, harm reputations, and disturb the peace.
The charges listed in the legal suit include defamation and criminally publishing false information with the intent to harm.
The court also referenced sections of the Criminal Code Act, which criminalize making statements that can damage someone’s character or cause harm to their reputation.
After hearing the case, the court decided to deny Farotimi’s request for bail, remanding him in prison.
The case has been adjourned until December 10, 2024, for further proceedings.
Farotimi’s legal team is yet to comment on the decision.
