|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has granted human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi bail after he was charged with alleged cybercrime by the police. Justice Babs O. Kuewumi, presiding over the case on Monday, December 9, 2024, approved bail conditions that include a N50 million surety and a guarantor with landed property valued at the same amount.
The case, listed under suit number FHC/AD/CR/104/2024, was initiated by the Inspector-General of Police, accusing Farotimi of transmitting defamatory statements during public interviews and writings. Specific allegations center on remarks made in an August 28, 2024 interview on Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, available on YouTube (view here).
One of the charges alleges that Farotimi falsely accused Afe Babalola of corrupting the judiciary, an offense said to contravene Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act of 2015.
The police further claimed Farotimi used his YouTube channel during a press conference on December 2, 2024, to accuse Babalola of orchestrating legal actions against him in Ekiti State, a statement allegedly intended to harass and bully.
Despite these allegations, Farotimi has denied any wrongdoing. His legal team described the charges as attempts to silence his activism for justice and good governance. Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore expressed support for Farotimi, stating, “The first hurdle was crossed. @DeleFarotimi was granted bail… The case was adjourned to January 29, 2025. #FreeDeleFarotimiNow.”
Farotimi’s case has drawn widespread attention, particularly as it coincides with heightened scrutiny over the use of cybercrime laws against outspoken critics of the government.
The next court session is scheduled for January 29, 2025, where further deliberations will take place on the 16 charges filed by the police.
