Human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has been remanded in prison custody over allegations of defaming legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.
Farotimi was arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti on Monday, facing a 16-count charge related to his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, in which he allegedly maligned the character of Afe Babalola.
The activist pleaded not guilty to all charges.
During the proceedings, police prosecutor Samson Osun requested that Farotimi be remanded in prison custody, citing the need for further investigation and the maintenance of public order.
However, the defendant’s counsel, Dayo Akeredolu, argued against the remand, urging the court to grant bail on liberal terms or on self-recognizance. He emphasized that the charges were bailable and that Farotimi, as a prominent figure, posed no security threat. Akeredolu further noted that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Despite the plea, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ordered Farotimi’s remand in prison custody and adjourned the case to December 10 for further proceedings.
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