The Nigerian police have filed fresh charges against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, at the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, in an apparent effort to prevent his bail. The charges are centered around allegations of cybercrime and were filed on December 6, 2024, following his previous arraignment before an Ekiti State court.
Farotimi, known for his activism in justice and governance, had appeared in court earlier after charges were brought against him by Afe Babalola SAN under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015. The charges stem from comments made by Farotimi in an online interview and during a press conference.
The police have filed 12 new charges, which include claims that Farotimi knowingly transmitted false information in a podcast interview on August 28, 2024. In this interview, Farotimi alleged that Aare Afe Babalola had corrupted the judiciary, a statement the prosecution claims was intended to cause a breakdown of law and order. The charges also assert that Farotimi used the platform to harass and bully individuals.
The case comes amid mounting tensions, as the Nigerian police continue their legal pursuit of the human rights lawyer. Farotimi has previously faced accusations related to his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, which critiques the nation's legal system.
