Renowned human rights lawyer, Tope Temokun, has dismissed claims suggesting that Dele Farotimi, currently in custody over alleged defamation, has sent emissaries to seek forgiveness or negotiate for his release.
Speaking during an appearance on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Channels TV, Temokun clarified Farotimi’s stance and reiterated his unwavering commitment to justice and truth.
Temokun, who visited Farotimi at the Ekiti Correctional Service last Friday, explained the purpose of his meeting with the detained activist.
“I visited Mr. Dele Farotimi in the Correctional Service in Ekiti yesterday [Friday] in the afternoon for one purpose: we have been involved in this matter since his arrest,” Temokun said. “The events of recent days, including the visit of Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, to Ado-Ekiti, created some clarity amidst the confusion surrounding this case.”
“The country is bigger than Are Afe Babalola; the country is bigger than Mr. Dele Farotimi. People who are farsighted should see beyond the issue of reputation and defamation,” he added.
The activist underscored Farotimi’s commitment to justice, fairness, and truth, revealing that Farotimi remained unwavering in his principles despite his current ordeal.
“I asked him about his message to Are Afe Babalola and the people outside. He said that anyone familiar with his principles and philosophy should know he wouldn’t send anyone to beg on his behalf. Justice must be served to all parties,” Temokun explained.
Farotimi firmly believes that if any line in his book contains falsehood, he would accept defeat. “He said he’s going to have the last laugh,” Temokun remarked.
“He told me that even in custody, his spirit of philosophizing has gone higher. He sees things more clearly now than he did before his remand. He believes he will be vindicated in the end because he is holding on to one weapon – the truth,” Temokun revealed.
Temokun also shed light on the apparent contradictions between the Federal High Court and the Magistrate Court in Ekiti regarding bail conditions.
“The charges before the two courts are not the same. The Magistrate Court is handling charges of criminal defamation, while the Federal High Court is addressing charges under the Cybercrimes Act,” Temokun clarified.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the Magistrate Court’s decision to require a written bail application, arguing that such a process delays justice.
“Even without a lawyer present, the court has a duty to grant bail in bailable offenses because the defendant is presumed innocent. Requiring a written bail application presumes guilt, which is contrary to the principle of justice,” Temokun argued.
However, he noted that Farotimi’s ability to secure bail in one court does not guarantee his release if conditions from the other court remain unmet.
Despite the legal entanglements, Temokun described Farotimi as being in high spirits.
