Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has been remanded in prison for allegedly defaming Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, a legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University.
Farotimi was arraigned on Monday before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti. He is accused of defaming Afe Babalola in his book titled Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
The activist pleaded not guilty to all 16 charges brought against him.
During the hearing, police prosecutor Samson Osun requested Farotimi’s remand in prison, citing the need for further investigation and to maintain national security.
However, the defense counsel, Dayo Akeredolu, argued against the remand, urging the court to grant his client bail on liberal terms or self-recognizance. He emphasized that the charges are bailable and that Farotimi, a prominent figure, poses no threat.
Akeredolu also reminded the court of the principle that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Despite the arguments, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ordered Farotimi’s remand in prison and adjourned the case to December 10.
