The Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti has dismissed the defamation lawsuit that Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun filed against activist lawyer Dele Farotimi, which was centred around claims of cybercrime.
The case originated from comments made by Farotimi during an interview about his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.” The comment particularly was remarks regarding Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti, which was considered defamatory, However, the case has now been formally withdrawn in court.
The case was initially adjourned for a hearing on January 29, 2025, however, the counsel for the complainant, Samson Osobu, informed the court that the prosecution had filed a notice of discontinuance, consequently, the case was withdrawn.
“The matter is slated for hearing today, but we have filed a notice of discontinuance dated January 29, 2025, and filed this morning,” he stated.
Osobu cited Section 108(1)(2)(a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 as the basis for the withdrawal, adding, “The prosecution, with the leave of this honourable court, seeks to withdraw the charge against the defendant and pray that the charge be struck out.”
He emphasized that the decision to discontinue the case followed interventions by well-meaning Nigerians and a request from the nominal complainant, Afe Babalola. Also, Counsel for the defendant, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), was in total support for the withdrawal, thereby making it a mutual agreement between the parties.
Consequently, Justice Babs Kuewumi struck out the case, declaring, “This case is hereby struck out.”
