By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has issued an order barring Dele Farotimi, human rights activist and lawyer, from publishing, selling, circulating, advertising, or distributing any copies—whether hard or soft—of his controversial book, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’.
Justice Peter Kekemeke granted the order following an ex-parte application filed by Kehinde Ogunwumiju, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and managing partner at Afe Babalola’s law firm.
The court also prohibited any agents, publishers, distributors, or resellers from further circulating the book in any format, including online or via social media.
The injunction is temporary, pending the resolution of the motion on notice for an interlocutory injunction filed on December 6, 2024.
Additionally, the court authorized the Nigerian Police, State Security Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security agencies to seize all physical copies of the book.
They are required to file an affidavit confirming compliance within 72 hours.
In a similar case, an Oyo State High Court also granted an interim order preventing Farotimi, or anyone acting on his behalf, from printing the book.
The court issued this order following a request by Adebayo Adenipekun, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, on behalf of Afe Babalola’s law firm.
The motion for an interlocutory injunction in Oyo State was adjourned to January 7, 2025.
