The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an order halting the sale, distribution, and production of the book “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System” by Dele Farotimi. The injunction was granted on December 6, 2024, under suit number CV/5372/2024, following a motion filed by legal luminary Afe Babalola through his representative, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN).
The court’s order restricts Farotimi and his agents, including major retailers such as Amazon, Rovingheights, Booksellers, Jazzhole, Glendora, and Patabah Books, from publishing, selling, or distributing both physical and digital copies of the book. Furthermore, the court directed the immediate seizure of all copies pending the resolution of the substantive case.
Additionally, the injunction includes a freeze on royalties generated from the book’s sales, a move that highlights the gravity of the legal battle.
Farotimi’s book, which critiques Nigeria’s judicial system, has gained international attention, even topping Amazon’s global politics bestseller list. The publication delves into alleged manipulations within the judiciary, with claims implicating prominent figures, including Afe Babalola.
This exposé has sparked heated debates, both within Nigeria and internationally, drawing applause from some quarters for its boldness and sharp criticism while raising eyebrows in others.
Reports suggest that the allegations contained in the book prompted a swift response from Babalola’s legal team. They argue that the publication includes unfounded claims capable of tarnishing reputations. The injunction, therefore, seeks to address these concerns and prevent further dissemination of the contentious material until the case is resolved in court.
The case is poised to attract widespread attention as it unfolds. The legal tussle underscores the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the protection of reputations in Nigeria’s judicial landscape.
While Farotimi’s supporters argue for the public’s right to access information that sheds light on systemic issues, Babalola’s camp is firm in protecting his legacy from what they view as defamatory allegations.
