A Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti has ordered that Human Rights Attorney and activist, Dele Farotimi, be remanded following allegations of defaming a prominent legal figure and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.

Naija News reports that the activist is accused of damaging the reputation of Afe Babalola through statements made in his recently released book, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.’

Farotimi, who was arraigned on Wednesday (today), pleaded not guilty to all sixteen charges brought against him.

Police prosecutor, Samson Osun, requested that the defendant be held in custody while further investigations are conducted, citing the need for maintaining public safety.

In response, the defendant’s attorney, Dayo Akeredolu, contested this request, urging the court to grant bail under lenient conditions and based on self-recognition.

He emphasized that the case is eligible for bail and that the defendant is a well-known individual who does not pose a threat.

Akeredolu also pointed out that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

Nevertheless, the presiding judge, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, decided to remand the defendant in custody and scheduled the next hearing for December 10.