The Nigerian Police have filed 12 additional cybercrime charges against detained human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi, escalating the legal challenges he faces.
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The fresh charges were submitted on Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, just days after his initial arraignment.
Farotimi, known for his critical stance on Nigeria's criminal justice system, had already been arraigned on Wednesday, December 4, on 16 counts of defamation.
The charges stemmed from allegations made in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, targeting Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and founder of Afe Babalola University, Afe Babalola.
According to the new charges, Farotimi allegedly made defamatory remarks during a recent appearance on Seun Okinbaloye’s podcast, where he referenced content from his controversial book.
The police accuse him of using the podcast to intimidate and malign Babalola further. Additionally, he is charged with publicizing details of legal proceedings against him during a press conference on December 2, 2024, one day before his arrest.
Farotimi remains in custody following a ruling by Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, who ordered his remand until December 10, pending further court proceedings.
The legal battle has drawn attention nationwide, with Farotimi’s supporters arguing the charges are an attempt to silence his advocacy.
The unfolding case continues to generate debate about free speech and the limits of public criticism in Nigeria.