(Updated) Dele Farotimi Granted 30 Million Bail

A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Ado Ekiti has granted bail in the sum of N30 million to human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, who was arrested earlier this month for allegedly defaming Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD).

The court also asked Farotimi to provide 3 sureties with a landed property within the jurisdiction.

He was told to refrain from media interviews and to submit his passport. The case has been adjourned till 13th February 2025.

The bail conditions include a N30 million bond, two sureties (one of whom must be a property owner), the submission of his passport, and a restriction on granting media interviews.

Farotimi, who had been remanded in a correctional facility in Ado Ekiti, arrived at the court premises at about 9:45 am on Friday under heavy security. A viral video captured his arrival in a prison van, accompanied by a police escort. The lawyer alighted from the vehicle to a cheering crowd, raising his hands in appreciation.

Presiding Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun had reserved a decision on Farotimi’s bail application during the last sitting, ordering his remand in custody pending the ruling.

Farotimi pleaded not guilty to the 14-count charge filed against him by the Ekiti State Police. His legal counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, filed a preliminary objection seeking to have the charges struck out. The defense argued that the charges were unknown to law and that defamation is not recognized as an offence under the Ekiti State Criminal Law, 2021.