Supporters of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi and those of prominent legal figure Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) clashed on Tuesday at the Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State,Daily Trust reports.
Tensions flared after the court adjourned its ruling on Farotimi’s bail application to December 20, 2024. The case stems from a defamation suit filed by Babalola, who alleged that Farotimi defamed him in his book titled Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
Outside the court, supporters of both sides engaged in a heated shouting match, with the altercation nearly escalating into physical violence. Human rights activists expressed frustration over the adjournment, criticizing the delay in the bail ruling. In contrast, Babalola’s supporters condemned the activists, accusing them of disrespecting an elder statesman and planning a protest to disrupt the peace of Ekiti State.
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Despite earlier threats of a protest by human rights activists, the day passed without any demonstrations.
The court session attracted significant attention, with the courtroom filled to capacity by lawyers and journalists, while many others gathered outside, watching the proceedings through the windows.
