Entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has visited lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi, days after the latter regained his freedom.
Sharing a clip of the visit on Instagram on Thursday, the 74-year-old highlighted the strength and optimism Farotimi has maintained despite his recent ordeal.
“Today is a special day, one that celebrates the power of friendship,” Charly Boy wrote.
“As many of you know, Nigeria happened to my dear friend Dele Farotimi recently, but thankfully, he was granted bail just in time for Christmas.”
Praising Farotimi’s resilience, Charly Boy added, “Despite everything he’s been through, Dele’s optimism is inspiring, and he’s reinforced my belief that there’s still hope for Nigeria.
“Dele is convinced that Nigerians are slowly but surely waking up to demand a better future for themselves and their children.”
Farotimi, a prominent critic of Nigeria’s justice system, was arrested at his Lagos office on December 3 by policemen from Ekiti Command.
He was subsequently transported to Ekiti State to face defamation charges over comments made in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, against senior lawyer Afe Babalola.
After spending weeks in custody, Farotimi was released on December 24 upon meeting bail conditions set by an Ado-Ekiti Magistrate Court.
These included a N30 million bond, two sureties and the surrender of his passport. The court also barred him from granting media interviews.
Announcing the release, former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore wrote, “Dele Farotimi is no longer being held at the prison yards in Ekiti State and is now returning home to Lagos.”
Charly Boy had earlier joined voices calling for Farotimi’s release.
