The Federal High Court in Ekiti State has granted Dele Farotimi, a prominent human rights activist, bail set at N50 million, accompanied by stringent conditions. Justice Babs Olaniyi Kuewumi, the presiding judge, mandated the provision of two years of tax clearance and a letter of consent from a bank as part of the bail requirements.
Farotimi, dressed in a pink shirt, arrived at the courtroom in handcuffs, escorted by police officers. This image of an activist shackled for allegedly expressing his opinion contrasts sharply with the treatment of high-profile politicians and public figures facing accusations of financial misconduct worth millions.
The activist’s arrest and detention stem from statements made during an online interview, where he reportedly alleged that Aare Afe Babalola, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and legal luminary, had “corrupted the judiciary.” The comments, tied to Farotimi’s book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, were deemed defamatory and in violation of Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
Farotimi’s troubles began last Tuesday when he was arrested in Lagos by officers of the Ekiti State Police Command, acting on a petition filed by Babalola. He was arraigned at an Ekiti Magistrate Court on a 16-count charge, including allegations of cyberbullying and defamation, and subsequently remanded in custody. His case has now been adjourned until January 29, 2025, prolonging a saga that has ignited nationwide conversations.
A portion of the charge sheet reads:
“That you, Dele Farotimi, on the 28th of August, 2024, knowingly and intentionally transmitted communication in an online interview on Mic On Podcast by Seun Okinbaloye on your YouTube channel, wherein you stated that ‘Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the judiciary,’ which you knew to be false information for the purpose of causing a breakdown of law and order, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act.”
The image of Farotimi in handcuffs has sparked outrage among Nigerians, with many accusing the justice system of being biased against ordinary citizens while shielding influential individuals. Critics have pointed to the stark contrast in the treatment of Yahaya Bello, a high-ranking politician accused of embezzling public funds, who appeared in court unrestrained.
Human rights organizations and legal analysts argue that the justice system disproportionately targets activists and dissenting voices while showing leniency toward those with political and financial clout. “This case is not just about Farotimi, it is a reflection of a system that punishes the vulnerable while the powerful walk free,” said Chike Obiora, a legal analyst and social commentator.
Farotimi’s arrest has reignited debates about the role of free speech and accountability in Nigeria. Activists warn that the crackdown on dissent could erode democratic values. “Dele Farotimi’s case shows how far those in power will go to silence criticism,” said a representative of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), who requested anonymity. “The Cybercrimes Act has become a tool for silencing dissent, rather than protecting the public.”
Meanwhile, some Nigerians have taken to social media to call out the systemic injustices plaguing the country’s legal framework. One Twitter user wrote:
“Dele Farotimi is being treated like a criminal for speaking out, yet corrupt politicians accused of stealing millions get VIP treatment. What hope is there for ordinary Nigerians?”
Farotimi’s case is a microcosm of broader issues in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, which has long been criticized for its selective enforcement. According to a 2023 report by Amnesty International, human rights defenders and journalists in Nigeria often face harassment, arrests, and lengthy legal battles for expressing dissenting opinions.
As the trial progresses, many are watching closely to see whether justice will be served or whether this will become yet another case where power trumps principle.
