Dele Farotimi

Dele Farotimi ()(born 27 April 1968), is a Nigerian lawyer, author, and political activist known for his outspoken advocacy for justice, good governance, and systemic reforms in Nigeria.

[7][8] Farotimi’s detention sparked widespread outrage, with activists, legal practitioners, and civil society organizations condemning the action as an attempt to stifle free speech and dissent.

[9][10][11] In response, his supporters organized protests with the hashtag #FreeDeleFarotimiNow led by Omoyele Sowore, launched social media campaigns,[12][13][14] and initiated legal actions demanding his immediate release and urging the Nigerian Government to uphold democratic principles.

[12] The protests began with physical demonstrations in major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Ado-Ekiti, where participants demanded Farotimi’s immediate release and the dismissal of the charges against him.

[17] Protesters carried placards with messages such as "Justice for Dele" and "End the Silencing of Critics," while legal professionals organized symbolic marches in solidarity with their detained colleague.

[25][26][27] The book's critical exploration of systemic issues in Nigeria’s legal and judicial landscape resonated with readers across the globe, propelling it to the top of international bestseller charts.

[30][31] The decision came following a lawsuit filed by Babalola, who alleged that certain portions of the book contained defamatory statements and misrepresentations about individuals and institutions within the Nigerian criminal justice system.