A Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, has ordered the remand of human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, in a correctional facility.
Presiding Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun gave the order on Tuesday following Farotimi’s arraignment by the Police on a 16-count charge of alleged defamation against renowned legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola. The allegations stem from statements in Farotimi’s book titled “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.”
The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Police prosecutor Samson Osun requested the court to remand Farotimi in custody pending further investigation. However, the defendant’s counsel, Barrister Dayo Akeredolu, opposed the remand request, urging the court to grant bail on liberal terms or on self-recognizance.
Akeredolu argued that the charges were bailable and noted that Farotimi is a respected public figure who poses no flight risk or threat to public order. He also reminded the court of the presumption of innocence guaranteed under the law.
Despite the arguments, Magistrate Adeosun denied the bail application and remanded the defendant in custody. The case was adjourned to December 10 for the continuation of the hearing.
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