In an unexpected turn of events during Friday’s proceedings at the Ekiti State Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, bail was granted to prominent activist Dele Farotimi following a hearing marked by several unforeseen interruptions and delays.
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The session commenced with discussions regarding the eligibility of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to appear before the magistrate court. However, the proceedings took an unanticipated turn when the presiding magistrate received a phone call notification and abruptly adjourned to his chambers to respond to it.
Upon returning to the courtroom, the magistrate encountered another setback when he revealed that he had left the ruling on Farotimi’s bail application at his residence. This admission caused noticeable embarrassment and further prolonged the proceedings.
The day’s events took yet another unexpected turn when the magistrate, after returning to the courtroom, mentioned issues with document clarity, stating that he required better quality prints of the necessary documentation.
Despite these procedural irregularities and delays, the session concluded with a favorable outcome for Farotimi, as bail was ultimately granted. The Magistrate Court has finally granted Dele Farotimi bail, subject to the following conditions: a 30 million Naira bond, two sureties (one of whom must be a property owner), submission of his passport, and a prohibition on granting media interviews.
The series of interruptions and explanations provided by the magistrate attracted attention from observers in the courtroom.
The case has generated substantial public interest, with supporters utilizing social media platforms to advocate for Farotimi’s release under the hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimiNOW.
Farotimi’s arrest was prompted by a petition filed by Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), a prominent lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
The case, with suit number MAD/1,476.C/2024, lists the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police as the complainant and Farotimi as the defendant.
Some of the charges read, “That you Dele Farotimi ‘m’ sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System” which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you stated at page IX of the book: “That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgment in the service of his clients” which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the Statements is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 59(1) of Criminal Code Act.”
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