N50 Million Bail Drama: Dele Farotimi's Cybercrime Case Takes a New Twist

By Achimi muktar

In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, granted renowned human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi a N50 million bail on Monday, December 9, 2024, amid allegations of cybercrime filed by the Inspector-General of Police.

Justice Babs O. Kuewumi, presiding over the hearing, ruled that Farotimi be released under strict conditions, including a N50 million surety and a guarantor with a landed property of equivalent value. The case, identified as FHC/AD/CR/104/2024, was adjourned to January 29, 2025, for further proceedings.

Charges and Allegations

Farotimi faces 12 counts under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, for statements allegedly made during a podcast interview and a press conference. The charges claim that his remarks regarding the Nigerian judiciary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Afe Babalola, were false and intended to incite unrest.

One count alleges that Farotimi stated in a podcast:

"Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the judiciary,"

a claim prosecutors argue was knowingly false and designed to disrupt public order.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with many viewing it as a battle between the forces of advocacy and institutional power.

Activists Speak Out

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, expressed solidarity with Farotimi, tweeting:

"The first hurdle was crossed. @DeleFarotimi was granted bail of N50 million surety… The case was adjourned to January 29, 2025. #FreeDeleFarotimiNow."

Farotimi, a vocal critic of Nigeria’s justice system, was arraigned shortly after police filed fresh charges in what some observers believe was an attempt to delay his bail and keep him in custody.

A Legal Battle for Justice

Farotimi’s case has ignited debates about freedom of expression and the use of cybercrime laws to suppress dissent. His supporters argue the charges are politically motivated, pointing to his advocacy for good governance and transparency as reasons for his legal troubles.

As the trial continues, all eyes remain on the January 29 court date, which will determine the next phase of this high-stakes legal drama.

Stay tuned as we follow this developing story.