At the heart of a case that has rocked Nigeria, renowned jurist Afe Babalola finds himself at the centre of a growing international controversy, as calls grow for the release of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.
Arrested on allegations related to his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” Farotimi has become a symbol of the fight against the repression of dissent in Nigeria.
In response, Babalola filed a complaint for defamation and cybercrime, leading to Farotimi’s detention. However, critics see the charges as an attempt to stifle freedom of expression.
Amnesty International has condemned Farotimi’s arrest, calling it a “crackdown on dissenting voices.”
The organization has called for his unconditional release, expressing concern over the appalling conditions in which he is being held by the Nigerian police.
“Dele Farotimi must be released immediately and unconditionally,” Amnesty said.
In addition, rights groups have targeted King’s College London, which established the Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education in 2023 following a £10 million donation.
Activists are urging the institution to sever ties with Babalola, alleging that his actions run counter to the centre’s mission to empower African youth.
Reports suggest that King’s College is consulting Amnesty International to address the fallout.
Meanwhile, a court in Ekiti State has denied Farotimi bail and set his next hearing for 10 December 2024.
The case highlights the tension between Nigeria’s judiciary and freedom of expression advocates.