A Magistrate court in Ekiti State has granted human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, bail in the amount of ₦30 million.
Cyber Reporters reports that Farotimi’s arrival at the Ekiti Magistrate Court was met with a heavy security presence, comprising policemen and other law enforcement agents.
Farotimi was arrested on December 7, 2024, on 16 counts of criminal defamation, following the publication of his book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System”.
The arrest was prompted by a petition filed by Afe Babalola, SAN, a prominent lawyer and Senior Advocate in Nigeria.
Farotimi’s bail was confirmed by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on his X handle on Friday.
The bail conditions include the provision of a surety of equal value who must own a piece of landed property.
Farotimi’s arrest and subsequent bail have sparked widespread debate and discussion about the limits of free speech in Nigeria.
The case has also raised concerns about the use of defamation laws to silence critics.
The case has been adjourned to January 29, 2025, for further proceedings.
As the case unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how the court handles the complex issues at play.
