By Seyi Babalola
Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi has been remanded in prison for allegedly defaming a legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.
It should be recalled that Farotimi was charged before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti on Monday.
In his recently published book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” the activist was accused of disparaging and defaming Afe Babalola’s character.
Farotimi pleaded not guilty on all sixteen counts.
Samson Osun, the police prosecutor, has appealed for the suspect to be remanded in prison until further investigation and its outcome in order to maintain national security.
Dayo Akeredolu, the defendant’s counsel, opposed the call, arguing with the court to admit the defendant to bail on very liberal terms and self-recognisance.
According to him, the case at hand is bailable and the suspect is a known figure who is not constituting any threat.
He said the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
However, in his ruling, the presiding judge, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun remanded the suspect in prison custody and adjourned till December 10.
