Farotimi was arraigned before a magistrate court for allegedly defaming legal expert Afe Babalola in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. He accused Babalola of corrupting the judiciary and influencing Supreme Court rulings. Farotimi pleaded not guilty to all sixteen charges. Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun remanded him in custody and adjourned the case until December 10.
Obi called the case “disturbing” and criticized the handling of it, claiming it undermines democratic principles such as freedom of expression and the presumption of innocence. He questioned why the police were involved in a civil matter like defamation.
In a statement on social media, Obi said:
“The treatment of Dele Farotimi’s case violates democratic norms protecting freedom of expression and innocence until proven guilty. It’s troubling that the police, overwhelmed by crime, focus on civil matters, rushing to court based on mere complaints. Remanding Farotimi for defamation raises serious concerns about justice and freedom of expression in Nigeria, especially against the backdrop of rising crime.
At a time when attention should be on security, corruption, and the economy, it’s disheartening to see efforts directed at silencing critical voices. Defamation is a civil matter, not a tool for intimidation or rights violations.
Democracy thrives on respecting diverse opinions and upholding justice impartially. I urge the authorities to prioritize justice and focus on the real threats facing our nation.”
