Dele Farotimi, detained over defamation charges tied to his book Nigeria and its Justice System, received a ₦30 million bail amidst chants of “Solidarity Forever” from supporters outside the Abuja courthouse.
Dele Farotimi, a renowned lawyer and activist, was greeted with chants of “Solidarity Forever” from his supporters as he exited the courthouse today. The scene, captured in the video below, shows a spirited crowd escorting him to a waiting vehicle after he was granted bail set at ₦30 million.
Farotimi has been detained over defamation charges linked to his book, Nigeria and its Justice System, which critiques the judiciary and names prominent figures, including Afe Babalola. His supporters view the case as an attempt to suppress critical voices challenging systemic issues in Nigeria
Farotimi’s ordeal has sparked nationwide discussions about the balance between enforcing defamation laws and safeguarding the right to critique institutions and individuals in positions of power. As his supporters rallied outside the court, they emphasized his role as a prisoner of conscience and a symbol of the fight for justice.