In a high-profile legal battle, the Chief Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has granted bail to human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi.
Farotimi, who has been at the centre of a controversial defamation case, was released on a stringent N30 million bond.
The court’s decision comes weeks after his arrest and detention by the Ekiti State police command.
Arrest Sparks Public Debate
Farotimi was arrested on December 3, 2024, in Lagos.
The arrest followed allegations of defamation in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
In the book, Farotimi accused legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, of influencing the Supreme Court to obtain fraudulent judgments for his clients.
The accusations have sparked heated debate, with supporters of Farotimi defending his right to freedom of expression.
Others, however, insist that such claims must be substantiated or withdrawn.
“Farotimi Is a Flight Risk” – Prosecution
The police filed a 14-count charge against Farotimi.
During two earlier court sessions on December 4 and December 10, bail was denied.
The prosecuting counsel, Samson Osobu, argued that Farotimi was a flight risk.
Osobu claimed the activist might abscond if granted bail, given the seriousness of the accusations.
Magistrate Balances Justice and Law
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun presided over Friday’s proceedings.
While granting the bail, Adeosun acknowledged the prosecution’s concerns but stated that defamation is a bailable offence.
He outlined stringent conditions to ensure Farotimi remains available for trial.
“These conditions are necessary to balance justice with the fear expressed by the prosecution,” Adeosun said.
Strict Bail Conditions
The court ordered Farotimi to provide two sureties, one of whom must own property in Ado-Ekiti.
Additionally, he was required to surrender his international passport.
The defence team confirmed that Farotimi’s passport was already submitted in a separate case at the Federal High Court.
The magistrate instructed the defence to present written proof of this submission.
Farotimi was also barred from granting media interviews or commenting on the case.
“Justice Will Prevail” – Defence Team
Speaking after the hearing, defence counsel Adejare Kembi expressed confidence in the legal process.
“We believe in the judiciary’s ability to ensure justice,” Kembi said.
He noted that the defence had complied with all bail conditions.
Activist’s Detention Draws Reactions
Farotimi’s arrest has drawn widespread attention.
Supporters gathered outside the court, chanting for his release.
One protester described the case as “an attempt to silence a voice for justice.”
Opponents argue that Farotimi’s allegations against Aare Afe Babalola were reckless and damaging.
