A book critiquing corruption in Nigeria’s judicial system has gained significant global attention, becoming the number one bestseller in Amazon’s global politics category. This surge in popularity follows the arrest of its author, Dele Farotimi, allegedly on the orders of a prominent lawyer and businessman.
The book, titled Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, reached the top spot on Thursday, as confirmed by independent checks. Interest in the publication skyrocketed both on global platforms like Amazon and in Nigerian bookstores, where readers sought to explore its controversial content.
The heightened demand coincides with Farotimi’s recent arrest, reportedly initiated by Afe Babalola, a 93-year-old senior lawyer who has faced long-standing allegations of corruption. The book’s achievement is remarkable, as Nigerian-themed publications rarely dominate Amazon’s bestseller charts, surpassing internationally renowned titles like Why Nations Fail.
Farotimi, a retired Lagos-based lawyer, uses his book to address corruption in Nigeria’s judiciary, singling out Babalola for criticism. The author alleges that Babalola undermined the Supreme Court, claiming he orchestrated corruption that tarnished the judiciary’s integrity.
Published in July 2024, the book initially saw modest sales. However, Farotimi’s dramatic arrest on Tuesday by armed police officers in Lagos sparked public outrage, drawing attention to his work. He was subsequently taken to Ado Ekiti, a city associated with Babalola, where he was arraigned and detained pending a bail hearing scheduled for December 10.
The police accused the book of inciting public fear and potentially disturbing the peace, as per the charge sheet. This development has reignited criticism of Babalola, who has faced accusations of influencing judicial decisions through monetary and material inducements. While the senior lawyer has consistently denied these allegations, his reputation remains contentious within the judiciary.
Farotimi’s detention has prompted widespread condemnation, with Nigerians calling for his immediate release. Many have criticized Babalola, regarded as one of the most powerful figures in Ekiti State, for allegedly orchestrating the arrest.
