A Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has granted bail to human rights activist Dele Farotimi, setting the amount at ₦30 million. The ruling, delivered by Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun on Friday, includes strict conditions, such as prohibiting the defendant from granting media interviews while the case is ongoing.
Bail Conditions
Farotimi’s bail terms require two responsible sureties and the surrender of his international passport to the court.
Court Proceedings
Farotimi, who pleaded not guilty to a 14-count charge filed against him by the police, was represented by his counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika. The lawyer argued for the dismissal of the charges, stating that defamation is not recognized as an offence under the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.
The magistrate had earlier reserved the ruling on the bail application and ordered Farotimi’s remand in custody, where he has been held since December 7, 2024.
Charges and Arrest
Farotimi was arrested on allegations of criminal defamation linked to his publication, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The charges include 16 counts of defamation, sparking widespread criticism and calls for his release from various civil society groups and Nigerians.
Arrival at Court
Farotimi arrived at the court under heavy security, transported in a prison van escorted by police officers. Outside the court, he was greeted by a cheering crowd, to whom he raised his hands in appreciation.
Public Reaction
The activist’s arrest has drawn significant backlash, with many Nigerians and human rights organizations decrying the charges as an attempt to stifle dissent. His release on bail, however, marks a critical development in the ongoing legal battle.
Farotimi’s next court appearance is expected to determine the trajectory of the high-profile case, which continues to attract national attention.
