Prominent lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has been granted bail by the Ekiti State High Court in a defamation suit filed against him by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Afe Babalola.
The court set the bail at ₦50 million, requiring a surety of equal financial standing and ownership of a landed property.
The case, which has drawn significant national attention, has been adjourned until 29 January 2025 for further proceedings.
Farotimi’s arrest by the Ekiti State Police Command sparked widespread criticism from the Nigerian Bar Association and civil society groups, who demanded his immediate release.
The legal conflict stems from allegations by Chief Afe Babalola, 95, who accused Dele Farotimi of defamation over claims made in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
The book reportedly included unfavorable remarks about the esteemed legal figure, prompting Babalola to take legal action.
Farotimi’s arrest and arraignment sparked widespread public criticism, with many viewing it as an assault on free expression.
In solidarity, activists have rallied in support of Farotimi, highlighting the need to safeguard the right to dissent in a democratic society.
A civil rights group representative responded to the development, stating, “This case goes beyond Farotimi; it’s about protecting free speech in Nigeria.”
The court’s decision to grant bail has temporarily eased tensions, but attention now shifts to the proceedings set for January, where the activist will continue to challenge the charges.
