Court Grants Dele Farotimi N30m Bail, Bars Media Interviews
A magistrates’ court in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, has granted embattled lawyer and human rights activist Dele Farotimi bail in the sum of N30 million. The decision was made on Friday by Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun during a bail hearing.
The court imposed strict conditions for the bail, including the provision of two responsible sureties, the surrender of Farotimi’s international passport, and a directive barring him from granting media interviews while the case remains ongoing.
Farotimi’s legal troubles stem from a criminal defamation case initiated by a petition from elder statesman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Afe Babalola. The case revolves around allegations that Farotimi defamed Babalola in his recently published book.
The activist was arraigned by the Ekiti Police Command earlier this week, and the bail ruling marks a significant development in the high-profile case.
Magistrate Adeosun emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and confidentiality during the legal proceedings, underscoring the restriction on media engagements by the defendant.
Farotimi’s legal team has expressed confidence in proving his innocence, while the case continues to generate significant public interest due to the prominence of the individuals involved.
Further hearings are expected to delve into the substance of the defamation allegations in the coming weeks.
