A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory(FCT) in Abuja has issued an interim injunction restraining human rights lawyer and author, Dele Farotimi, from publishing, selling, or distributing his book ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.’
In its report today, Channels TV said the order, granted by Justice Peter Kekemeke, also applies to all Farotimi’s representatives, publishers, and distributors, pending the determination of a motion for interlocutory injunction dated and filed on December 6, 2024.
The case stems from allegations of defamation against Chief Afe Babalola(SAN) ,and founder of Afe Babalola University, whose firm initiated the legal action against Farotimi.
The New Daily Prime earlier reported that Farotimi was arrested, prosecuted, and remanded in custody over claims made in the book against Babalola.
Despite its initial slow sales after its independent publication on July 2, 2024, the book surged to become an Amazon bestseller within 24 hours of Farotimi’s arrest
Justice Kekemeke’s order extends to various bookstores and platforms, including Amazon, Rovingheights Bookstore, Jazzhole Lagos Bookstore, and Glendora Bookshop.
The court directed security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, State Security Service, and Civil Defence Corps, to seize all physical copies of the book wherever they may be found.
These agencies are required to file affidavits within 72 hours to confirm compliance with the order.
In a related development, an Oyo State High Court also granted an interim injunction restraining Farotimi or any associates from further printing or distributing the book.
Justice Mufutau Adegbola granted the order following an ex parte application filed by Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN) a senior partner in Afe Babalola’s law firm on December 9,2024
Justice Adegbola directed that the other parties in the case be put on notice and adjourned the hearing of the motion for interlocutory injunction to January 7, 2025.
The court orders mark a significant escalation in the legal battle surrounding the controversial publication.
