Peter Obi to pay Dele Farotimi’s N30m bail as Court restricts media engagements

In a significant legal development, a magistrate court in Ekiti State has granted bail to human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, setting conditions that include a N30 million bond and three sureties with landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.

The court also imposed restrictions on Farotimi, including a ban on granting media interviews and a requirement to submit his passport. The case has been adjourned to February 13, 2025, for further proceedings.

Farotimi, who had been remanded at a correctional facility in Ado Ekiti for over two weeks, arrived at the Magistrate Court premises at approximately 9:45 am on Friday.

Escorted by police and conveyed in a prison van, Farotimi emerged to a cheering crowd, raising his hands in appreciation.

The magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, had reserved ruling on the bail application during the last hearing on December 20. Farotimi, who pleaded not guilty to a 14-count charge brought against him by the police, faces allegations including defamation of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola.

His counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, filed a preliminary objection arguing that the charges were not recognized under the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.

In a related development, Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the Obidient Movement, has offered to fulfill the bail conditions.

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The movement’s global coordinator confirmed Obi’s gesture, expressing gratitude to the court and all involved parties. Obi also called for a resolution that respects the integrity of the legal system and ensures justice.

Farotimi’s arrest and subsequent detention have ignited widespread criticism and demands for his release. Prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and activist Omoyele Sowore, have condemned the government’s actions, accusing it of stifling dissent.

Civil society organizations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, have echoed these concerns. In a statement on X, Amnesty International declared, “The Nigerian authorities must end repression of dissent and immediately and unconditionally release him.”

Additionally, senior human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) criticized Farotimi’s arrest, labeling it illegal and a violation of fundamental freedoms.

The public outcry and support from opposition leaders and human rights groups underscore the broader implications of the case, which continues to draw attention both locally and internationally.