Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has been arraigned in an Ekiti State court over allegations of cybercrime, stemming from his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. The charges, brought under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, were filed by police prosecutors following a petition by legal luminary Afe Babalola (SAN).
Among the 16 charges, Farotimi is accused of defaming Babalola in the book through statements allegedly injurious to his reputation. The controversial excerpts, cited in the charges, accuse Babalola of influencing court rulings, which the police claim contravene Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act.
The arrest followed a dramatic raid at Farotimi’s Lagos office, where police officers confiscated devices and whisked him away without presenting a warrant. The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the operation, calling it a violation of constitutional rights and due process.
Farotimi, known for his advocacy for justice and human rights, appeared in court amid growing concerns over the legality of his arrest.
