A Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has reportedly granted ₦50 million bail to Human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.
In a post via X on Monday, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Action Alliance Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, revealed that Farotimi had been granted ₦50 million.
He wrote, “BREAKING: The first hurdle was crossed. @DeleFarotimi was granted bail of N50 million naira surety in the like sum with someone with landed property. The Case was Adjourned to 29 January 2025.”
Recall that Farotimi was remanded following allegations of defaming a prominent legal figure and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.
Henzodaily reports that the activist is accused of damaging the reputation of Afe Babalola through statements made in his recently released book, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.’
Farotimi, who was arraigned last Wednesday, pleaded not guilty to all sixteen charges against him.
Police prosecutor, Samson Osun, requested that the defendant be held in custody while further investigations are conducted, citing the need for maintaining public safety.
In response, the defendant’s attorney, Dayo Akeredolu, contested this request, urging the court to grant bail under lenient conditions and based on self-recognition.
He emphasized that the case is eligible for bail and that the defendant is a well-known individual who does not pose a threat.