Human rights advocate and Lagos-based attorney, Dele Farotimi, has regained his freedom from the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre after satisfying the bail conditions set by both the Federal High Court and the Ekiti State Magistrate Court.
Sources from his legal team confirmed his release early Tuesday, revealing that Farotimi is now en route to Lagos to reunite with his family.
“Yes, he has been released this morning after meeting the bail conditions. He is currently on his way to Lagos and will be with his family today. The next court hearing is scheduled for February 15, 2025,” a source disclosed.
Farotimi had been in custody over allegations of defamation stemming from his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Judicial System. In the publication, he accused prominent legal figure Afe Babalola (SAN) of corruption within the judiciary, which prompted a petition and subsequent legal action.
At a recent hearing, Chief Magistrate Adebayo Adeosun granted Farotimi bail under strict conditions. These included a ₦30 million bond, two sureties—one being an Ekiti resident with a landed property—and the surrender of his international passport. Additionally, Farotimi was barred from granting media interviews.
The court adjourned the case to February 13, 2025, for further proceedings.
