An Ekiti State Magistrate Court has sent renowned human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi to prison.
Farotimi is standing trial for allegedly defaming a legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.
The trial Magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, held that Farotimi should be remanded in the prison till next week December 10 fixed for ruling in his bail application.
BAR & BENCH WATCH reports that Farotimi was arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti on Monday.
The activist was accused of maligning and defaming the character of Afe Babalola in his recently published book, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
Farotimi pleaded not guilty to all the sixteen count charges.
Police prosecutor, Samson Osun called for the remand of the suspect in prison custody pending further investigation and its outcome for the maintenance of security in the country.
Counsel to the defendant, Dayo Akeredolu opposed the call, pleading with the court to admit the defendant to bail on very liberal terms and on self-recognisance.
According to him, the case at hand is bailable and the suspect is a known figure who is not constituting any threat.
He said the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
However, in his ruling, the presiding judge, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun remanded the suspect in prison custody and adjourned till December 10.
