A Magistrate court sitting in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital, has remanded a human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi in correctional centre.
Presiding Magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun remanded Farotimi after his arraignment by the Police for alleged defamation of the character of renowned legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola in his book entitled: “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.”
The human rights lawyer pleaded not guilty to all the 16-count charge against him.
Police prosecutor, Samson Osun called for the remand of the defendant in the correctional centre pending further investigation.
However, counsel to the defendant, Barrister Dayo Akeredolu opposed the remand call and pleaded with the court to admit the defendant to bail on very liberal terms and self recognisance.
He argued that the case is bailable and the suspect is a known figure who is not constituting any threat.
The defendant’s counsel said that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Magistrate Adeosun refused Farotimi’s bail application, remanded him in prison custody and adjourned the matter till December 10 for the continuation of the hearing.
