Court Denies Dele Farotimi Bail Over Alleged Cyberbullying Charges

Human rights activist Dele Farotimi was denied bail by an Ado-Ekiti Magistrate’s Court following his arrest in Lagos and subsequent arraignment on a 16-count charge of defamation. The charges stem from claims in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, accusing Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, of judicial corruption. Farotimi pleaded not guilty.

Legal Dispute Over Representation

The case took a dramatic turn when Farotimi’s counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, was asked to step down. The police prosecutor argued that Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) cannot represent clients in magistrate courts, citing a 2014 Magistrate’s Law. This was contested by Olumide-Fusika, who referenced a different legal precedent supporting representation by any qualified lawyer in criminal cases.

The court ultimately ruled against him, allowing another lawyer, Taiwo Adeniji, to proceed with the bail application.

Adeniji argued that the charges were bailable under Nigeria’s constitution, but the prosecutor opposed, claiming the application lacked merit. Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun postponed the bail ruling to December 20 due to prolonged legal disagreements.

Tension Outside Courtroom

Supporters of Farotimi and pro-Afe Babalola groups clashed outside the courtroom. Farotimi’s supporters vowed to stage protests in Lagos, alleging rights violations, while the opposing group called for order.

Atiku and Seadogs Decry Human Rights Abuse

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned Farotimi’s detention as a misuse of power, calling it a “poignant reflection of impunity.” In a statement on International Human Rights Day, he criticized the government’s use of cyberbullying laws to silence critics, urging leaders to uphold citizens' constitutional rights.

Similarly, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) marched in Jos to protest growing human rights abuses.

The group criticized Farotimi’s harsh bail conditions, describing the N50 million requirement as excessive. Chairman Charles Uwechia emphasized the need for public awareness of rights, stating, “Farotimi is not a criminal; this is a civil matter.”

The ongoing case underscores concerns about judicial processes and human rights in Nigeria.