Dele Farotimi, a human rights lawyer, has been granted bail in the amount of N30 million by a Magistrates court in Ekiti State. This comes after he was arrested and prosecuted for allegedly defaming Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). Farotimi’s arrest had sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and politician Omoyele Sowore, calling for his immediate release.
The case against Farotimi stems from a book he wrote, which Afe Babalola claims damaged his reputation. Afe Babalola’s lawyers have stated that Farotimi will be freed if he can prove the allegations made in his book. However, Farotimi’s counsel argues that the charge of defamation is not recognized under the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.
Farotimi’s bail hearing was held on December 20, 2024, and he was released on bail after meeting the N30 million requirement. The case has sparked a national conversation about freedom of speech and the limits of defamation laws in Nigeria.
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