Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been released from a correctional center in Ekiti State after fulfilling stringent bail conditions. His release on Tuesday morning follows legal battles that have drawn national attention.
Farotimi was granted bail on Friday by a magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti, with conditions including a N30 million bond, two sureties (one of whom must own property), the surrender of his passport, and a restriction from granting media interviews post-release.
Following his release, Farotimi addressed the press, reaffirming his commitment to truth and justice.
“It is not ever an easy journey when you are fighting evil, but some years back, before I started this work, God told me that the truth is enough… I have never lied against anyone. If I don’t know, I will say I don’t know,” he stated passionately.
The legal troubles began after the release of Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, in July. The 116-page publication reportedly accused prominent figures, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria Afe Babalola, of corrupt practices within the judiciary.
Months later, Babalola filed a defamation petition, leading to Farotimi’s dramatic arrest on December 3 by officers from Ekiti State Police Command.
The lawyer faced multiple charges, including defamation and cyberbullying, with additional accusations brought by the Inspector General of Police. Despite these hurdles, Farotimi’s release marks a critical moment in his fight for justice and advocacy for judicial reform.
