FAROTIMI N50M BAIL BOND: CDHR COMMENDS JUDICIARY, CRITICIZES OUTRAGEOUS BAIL CONDITIONS
The Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti, on Monday, December 9, 2024, granted bail to human rights lawyer and activist Barrister Dele Farotimi. The case, filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and labeled FHC/AD/CR/104/2024, accuses Farotimi of alleged involvement in cybercrime activities.
Justice B.O. Kuewumi, presiding over the case, granted bail under stringent conditions, including a ₦50 million surety and a guarantor who must own landed property of equivalent value. The case has been adjourned to January 29, 2025, for further hearing.
Background to the Arrest
Days before his arrest, Farotimi had raised alarm over an alleged plot by the police to detain him. This claim was confirmed on Monday night when police operatives arrested him at his Lagos office and transferred him to Ekiti State. He was subsequently arraigned on charges of alleged criminal defamation against Chief Afe Babalola.
CDHR’s Reaction
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) criticized the police for transferring Farotimi to Ado Ekiti, arguing that the alleged offense was not committed in Ekiti State. CDHR maintains that the Lagos State Police Command could have handled the case and facilitated prosecution in Lagos.
The organization also condemned Farotimi’s detention, stating it was unnecessary since the charges against him are non-violent, and there was no record of him ignoring any prior police invitations.
Commendation for Judiciary, Call for Bail Review
Despite its criticism of the arrest, CDHR commended the judiciary for granting bail promptly. However, the organization described the ₦50 million bail condition as excessive and called for its downward review.
CDHR emphasized its respect for the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law, acknowledging that the case involves criminal defamation. Nonetheless, the group urged authorities to ensure the trial is conducted with transparency, fairness, and humanity to uphold the principles of justice.
CDHR’s Commitment
The CDHR assured the public that it would continue to monitor the proceedings closely and provide necessary interventions to ensure justice is served in a visible and equitable manner.
E-Signed:
Comrade Debo Adeniran
National President, CDHR Nigeria
Comrade Idris Afees Olayinka
National Publicity Secretary, CDHR Nigeria