JUST IN: Human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi arraigned over alleged defamation

Prominent human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has been arraigned before an Ekiti State Magistrate Court on charges of defamation.

Farotimi’s arrest on Tuesday in Lagos by operatives of the Ekiti State police command has sparked widespread controversy and raised questions about the circumstances of his detention.

The activist was brought before the court on Wednesday morning, facing a 16-count charge of defamation against legal luminary and Afe Babalola University founder, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.

The charges are linked to allegations in Farotimi’s recent book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, in which he purportedly made defamatory statements against Babalola.

Farotimi, known for his outspoken criticism of Nigeria’s justice system and governance, has drawn support from civil rights groups and activists, who see his arraignment as part of a broader crackdown on dissent.