Human rights advocate Dele Farotimi has been released from the correctional centre in Ekiti State after meeting his bail conditions.
Farotimi was freed on Tuesday morning following a magistrate court ruling in Ado-Ekiti last Friday, which granted him bail of ₦30 million with two sureties.
Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun had stipulated that the sureties must be “responsible citizens in the society,” with one owning property within the court’s jurisdiction.
The court also directed Farotimi to surrender his international passport and refrain from granting media interviews during the trial.
Farotimi is facing a 14-count charge bordering on alleged defamation and has pleaded not guilty.
The charges stem from allegations by the police that he “criminally defamed” Afe Babalola, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), in his book titled Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
In a separate case, the Federal High Court in Ekiti had earlier granted him ₦50 million bail with one surety over a 12-count charge of cybercrime filed by the Inspector-General of Police.
Addressing supporters after his release, Farotimi said, “In my public advocacy, I have never lied against anyone. If I don’t know, I will say I don’t know.” He stressed that truth remains the most potent weapon to change Nigeria.
The development follows a promise by former Anambra State governor Peter Obi to assist in meeting Farotimi’s bail conditions.
- Arise News Presenter Killed in Abuja Robbery - October 1, 2025
- ASUU Gives FG 14-Day Ultimatum to Meet Demands - September 30, 2025
- Graduates Must Submit Projects to National Database Before NYSC – FG - September 30, 2025