Early Life and Education
Dele Farotimi was born on April 27, 1968, in Nigeria. He attended Fiditi Grammar School for his secondary education. Driven by a passion for justice, Dele Farotimi pursued a law degree at Lagos State University (LASU), where he excelled academically and became the President of the Student Union during the 1994/1995 academic year. This leadership role sparked his desire to fight for social change and justice.
Legal Career
In 1999, Dele Farotimi was called to the Nigerian Bar, officially starting his career as a lawyer. He joined the law firm Adesina Ogunlana & Co., where he focused on cases advocating for human rights and justice. For nearly two decades, he practiced law with a deep commitment to addressing Nigeria’s systemic challenges. Dele Farotimi retired from active legal practice in 2018 at the age of 50 but remained deeply involved in public advocacy.
Advocacy and Writing
Dele Farotimi is a passionate advocate for a better Nigeria. As a member of the Citizens’ Rally Against Oppression (RAMINBA), he consistently speaks out against corruption, injustice, and poor governance in the country. Dele Farotimi writings and speeches are a call to action for systemic reform.
In 2019, Dele Farotimi released his book Do Not Die in Their War, which examines the challenges of governance and the oppression of the Nigerian people. The book has sparked discussions about the need for change. In 2021, Dele Farotimi published another thought-provoking book, Imperatives of the Nigerian Revolution, which further outlined his vision for systemic reforms.
Dele Farotimi envisions a Nigeria free from corruption, poverty, and mental slavery. He advocates for leadership based on transparency, accountability, justice, and equity.
Arrest and Free Speech Advocacy
Dele Farotimi outspoken nature led to controversy in December 2024, when he was arrested in Lagos and extradited to Ekiti State over allegations of defamation linked to his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The charges, filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola, accused Dele of making defamatory statements about Nigeria’s legal system.
Dele Farotimi arrest triggered protests across Nigeria, with activists and civil society groups condemning the move as an attack on free speech. The #FreeDeleFarotimiNow campaign gained widespread attention, with many calling for Dele Farotimi immediate release and the dismissal of the charges. Dele denied the allegations, arguing that Dele Farotimi book was a fair critique of systemic issues in Nigeria.
Dele Farotimi was eventually granted bail, but his case highlighted the challenges faced by activists speaking out against powerful interests in Nigeria.
Books and Legacy
Dele Farotimi books, including Do Not Die in Their War and Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, have gained international recognition. These works critique corruption and governance in Nigeria, offering bold solutions for systemic change. Dele Farotimi writings continue to inspire readers and advocate for a better future.
Personal Life
Dele Farotimi is married to Funmi Farotimi, who has been a supportive partner throughout his journey. Although he keeps his personal life private, their relationship reflects mutual respect and shared values.
Vision for Nigeria
Dele Farotimi dreams of a Nigeria where leaders prioritize the well-being of the people over personal interests. He envisions a nation free from oppression, governed with transparency and justice. Through his advocacy, writings, and speeches, Dele Farotimi continues to inspire a movement for systemic reforms and the liberation of the Nigerian people.
Dele Farotimi life is a testament to courage, resilience, and an unrelenting commitment to justice. As a lawyer, author, and activist, he has dedicated himself to creating a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive, free from oppression and inequality. His legacy as a voice for change will continue to inspire generations to come.
FAQs
1. What is Dele Farotimi real name?
- Dele Farotimi real name is Oladele Farotimi.
2. How old is Dele Farotimi?
- Dele Farotimi was born on April 27, 1968, making him 56 years old as of 2024.
3. What is Dele Farotimi career?
- Dele Farotimi is a lawyer, author, and political activist. He practiced law actively from 1999 until his retirement in 2018.
4. Where did Dele Farotimi study?
- He studied law at Lagos State University (LASU), where he also served as President of the Student Union during the 1994/1995 academic year.
5. Who are Dele Farotimi parents?
- Details about Dele Farotimi parents are not publicly available.
6. Is Dele Farotimi married?
- Yes, Dele Farotimi is married to Funmi Farotimi. She has been a supportive partner throughout his career and activism.
7. Does Dele Farotimi have children?
- There is no publicly available information about Dele Farotimi children.
8. What books has Dele Farotimi written?
- Dele Farotimi has written several books, including Do Not Die in Their War (2019), Imperatives of the Nigerian Revolution (2021), and Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
9. What is Dele Farotimi nationality?
- Dele Farotimi is Nigerian.
10. What controversy surrounded Dele Farotimi arrest?
- In December 2024, Dele Farotimi was arrested in Lagos and extradited to Ekiti State over allegations of defamation related to his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. His arrest sparked nationwide protests and the #FreeDeleFarotimiNow campaign, with activists and civil society groups criticizing it as an attack on free speech. He denied the charges and called the
allegations an infringement on his constitutional rights.
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