By Victor Akinkuolie
Ado-Ekiti

A Chief Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti has granted bail to human rights lawyer and activist, Mr Dele Farotimi, who is facing a 12-count cybercrime charge brought by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

The charges stem from a petition filed by legal luminary and elder statesman, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, alleging defamation in Farotimi’s book titled “Nigeria and Its Criminal Judicial System.” The 105-page publication accuses Babalola of bribing the judiciary and procuring judgments for his clients, claims that have sparked legal action.

During Thursday’s hearing, Magistrate Adebayo Adeosun overruled the prosecutor, Samson Osubu, who opposed bail for the defendant.

Adeosun stated that Farotimi could not remain in custody indefinitely and granted him bail on stringent terms, including a N30 million bond and two sureties.

One of the sureties must reside in Ekiti State and provide proof of ownership of a landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.

The defendant was also ordered to surrender his international passport and was barred from granting media interviews, whether to print or electronic outlets. The case was adjourned to 13 February 2025 for hearing.

The court proceedings were accompanied by a peaceful protest staged by members of the “Take It Back Movement,” a youth group showing solidarity with Farotimi, who is a prominent member of the organisation.

National Coordinator of the group, Juwon Sanyaolu, criticised the manner of Farotimi’s arrest in Lagos and subsequent transfer to Ekiti State.

He praised the court’s decision to grant bail, expressing confidence that the defendant would meet the conditions and not abscond.

Farotimi’s counsel, Mr Ralph Nwoke, also commended the court for its ruling and assured that efforts would be made to meet the bail conditions promptly.

Meanwhile, the head of Afe Babalola’s legal team, Mr Owoseni Ajayi, SAN, stated that they were prepared for the trial and would present their case when the hearing begins.