In a legal development that has attracted public attention, Dele Farotimi, a prominent public figure, has been charged by the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Ado-Ekiti Judicial Division, for allegedly spreading false information that could disrupt public order.
The charges stem from Farotimi’s appearances in online interviews and podcasts where he made serious allegations against Chief Afe Babalola, a well-known Nigerian lawyer and philanthropist. In an interview on Seun Okinbaloye’s “Mic On Podcast” in August 2024, Farotimi claimed that “Aare Afe Babalola had corrupted the judiciary,” which he stated was part of a broader breakdown of law and order.
The first count accuses Farotimi of intentionally transmitting these false statements, knowing them to be untrue, with the intent of causing a public disturbance. The charge is punishable under Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
The second charge relates to further defamatory remarks made by Farotimi in another interview on the same platform, where he again alleged that Chief Babalola was involved in corrupting the judiciary. This statement was similarly considered an offense under the same cybercrime laws.
Additionally, in a press conference held on December 2, 2024, Farotimi allegedly claimed that a fraudulent charge was preferred against him in Ekiti State by Chief Babalola, which led to another charge of transmitting false information. This claim, according to the court, could potentially harm Babalola’s reputation and mislead the public.
