A prominent human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, has been denied bail and remanded in custody by an Ado Ekiti court following allegations of cyberbullying and defamation.
The case, which has drawn widespread criticism, was adjourned until December 10, 2024.
Political activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, alleged via his social media handle on Wednesday that Farotimi’s arrest and prosecution were premeditated.
He stated, “The Nigerian justice system is broken. As expected, @DeleFarotimi has been hurriedly prosecuted and sent to prison after being denied bail by a judge in Ado Ekiti who was pre-arranged to do so.
“This is a calculated effort involving the @policeng, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, and judicial officers.” Sowore added, “Nigeria is long overdue for a revolution!”
Farotimi’s arrest, carried out by the Ekiti State Police Command’s Rapid Response Squad, has been defended by the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Adeniran Akinwale.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Akinwale said, “The allegations against him include defamation of character and cyberstalking. These offences are serious, and our investigations have established substantial evidence to warrant his arrest.”
However, the process leading to his detention has sparked backlash from supporters and political figures.
Akin Osuntokun, Director General of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council, criticized the manner of the arrest in a telephone conversation, saying, “The way this matter has been handled undermines due process and raises questions about the integrity of our justice system.”
Farotimi, a Lagos-based lawyer and activist, has been vocal on issues of social justice and human rights.
