Ado-Ekiti was tense this Friday morning as the Ekiti Magistrate Court was fortified with heavy security ahead of the highly anticipated hearing involving human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi. The court premises were swarmed with police officers and other law enforcement agents to maintain order and ensure security.
Farotimi, who arrived amid tight security, is facing legal action following a petition by renowned lawyer Chief Afe Babalola (SAN). The case, with charge suit number MAD/1,476.C/2024, pits the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police as the complainant against Farotimi as the defendant.
The charges stem from Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, published in 2024. The prosecution alleges that Farotimi accused Aare Afe Babalola of corrupting the Supreme Court to secure a fraudulent judgment for his clients. The specific charge reads:
“That you, Dele Farotimi ‘m,’ sometimes in 2024, authored, published, and circulated your book titled: ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,’ which was received and read all over the world, including Ado-Ekiti, within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District, wherein you stated at page IX of the book: ‘That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgment in the service of his clients,’ which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace, knowing or having reason to believe that the statement is false, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act.”
The court is expected to rule on Farotimi’s bail application during today’s session. However, tension remains high as security operatives, including policemen, were stationed strategically within the court premises to avert any disturbances.
It will be recalled that Farotimi was denied bail earlier on December 4, 2024. Today’s ruling could mark a turning point in the case that has drawn significant public attention due to its implications for free speech and the justice system in Nigeria.
Observers and supporters of Farotimi await the court’s decision, which will determine whether the embattled lawyer will be granted temporary freedom or remain in custody as the legal battle continues.