Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has traveled to Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, where he met with renowned Nigerian legal practitioner, Afe Babalola, SAN.
Obi’s visit came as part of his efforts to plead with Babalola regarding the ongoing situation of human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, who is currently incarcerated at the Ekiti prison.
Farotimi, a vocal activist, faces charges brought against him by Babalola under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, following a petition by the legal luminary to the Nigerian police. The development has sparked widespread public backlash, with protests planned both locally and internationally to condemn Babalola’s actions, accusing him of abusing his power.
According to sources who were present at the meeting, Obi’s discussions with Babalola on Monday were in-depth, with the former governor reportedly pleading with Babalola to reconsider the circumstances surrounding Farotimi’s detention.
Obi’s day in Ekiti also included a visit to the prison where Farotimi is being held. There, he met privately with Farotimi, offering his solidarity and engaging in a candid conversation about the challenges the activist currently faces.
A post on X (formerly Twitter) by an eyewitness stated: “Today, Mr. @PeterObi traveled from Lagos to Ekiti State, dedicating the entire day to meaningful engagements. He visited Aare Afe Babalola at his office within the Afe Babalola University, where they had in-depth discussions on critical issues, including the situation of activist and lawyer @DeleFarotimi. Following this, Mr. @PeterObi proceeded to the prison facility where @DeleFarotimi is being held. In a private meeting, he expressed solidarity and engaged in a candid exchange aimed at addressing the prevailing challenges.”
On Monday, the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti granted Farotimi N50 million bail after charges were filed against him by the police in connection with allegations of cybercrime. Justice Babs O. Kuewumi ruled that Farotimi be released on bail with stringent conditions, including the requirement for a N50 million surety and a guarantor with equivalent landed property.
The case, filed by the Inspector-General of Police under suit number FHC/AD/CR/104/2024, was adjourned until January 29, 2025, for further proceedings.
