Tensions flared on Tuesday at the Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State as supporters of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi and legal luminary Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) clashed.
The altercation occurred after the court adjourned the ruling on Mr Farotimi’s bail application to December 20, 2024.
Babalola earlier filed a defamation suit against Farotimi over alleged defamatory statements in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.
Supporters of both sides engaged in a heated shouting match, with some nearly coming to blows on the court premises. While human rights activists expressed displeasure at the bail ruling delay, Babalola’s supporters accused them of disrespecting the elder statesman and warned against disrupting the peace in Ekiti State.
Despite earlier calls for a protest by the activists, no demonstrations took place on Tuesday.
The courtroom was packed with lawyers and journalists, while many others gathered outside to observe proceedings through the windows.
