Dele Farotimi, founder of the law firm Dele Farotimi & Co, is a seasoned legal professional, acclaimed writer, and dedicated advocate for political reform in Nigeria. Born in 1968, Dele, aged 54 in 2022, is a prominent figure in the Citizens’ Rally against Oppression (RAMINBA), where he tirelessly campaigns for a complete restructuring of the country’s governance and the revision of the 1999 Constitution. Through his insightful commentary and thought-provoking writings, Dele aims to educate and empower both present and upcoming generations in the fight against corruption and injustice.
| Full Name: | Dele Farotimi |
| Date of Birth: | April 27, 1968 |
| Place of Birth: | Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria |
| State of Origin: | Oyo State |
| Marital Status: | Married |
| Occupations: | Lawyer, Author, Activist |
| Net Worth: | N/A |
Early Life and Education
Dele Farotimi was born on April 27, 1968, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. His early life was shaped by a culturally rich environment that influenced his values and aspirations.
He attended primary and secondary schools in Oyo State before pursuing higher education at Lagos State University (LASU), where he earned a degree in law.
During his time at LASU, he served as the President of the Student Union in the 1994/1995 academic year. Dele later attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the bar in 1999, marking the beginning of his legal career.
Career
While studying as an undergraduate, Dele Farotimi was elected President of the Student Union during the 1994/1995 academic session, giving him a platform to advocate for social change on campus.
Following his graduation, Dele began his legal career as a counsel at firms like Adesina Ogunlana & Co, Basa & Partners, and later joined K.O. Tinubu & Co, where he gained valuable experience working alongside legal luminaries such as the late K.O. Tinubu, B.R. Fashola, SAN, and Rasheed Oluwa.
After sharpening his skills at various law firms, Dele established his own legal practice, initially known as Dele Farotimi & Co in 2002 and now operating as DF Legal.
His firm has gained a reputation for its meticulous attention to detail and practical approach in serving a diverse range of clients, providing services in areas such as business litigation, intellectual property, real estate and property law, infrastructure and energy law, public-private partnerships, and more.
Throughout the years, Dele Farotimi’s legal practice, DF Legal, has attracted a diverse range of clients, including multinational corporations, mortgage and commercial banks, prominent real estate development firms, infrastructure investors, and players in the oil and gas industry.
In 2022, Dele was selected as a member of the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Official Spokespersons, lending his support to the Labour Party’s candidate, Peter Obi, ahead of the 2023 general election.
Advocacy
Dele’s vision is for a Nigeria where leadership is characterized by transparency and accountability, reclaiming its position on the global stage.
He tirelessly champions for the liberation of the people from oppressive governance.Through his writing, Dele strives to enlighten, inspire, guide, and educate both current and future generations.
Controversies
During a press briefing on February 23, 2021, Farotimi made shocking revelations about a perceived threat to his safety.
He asserted that influential figures in Lagos had allegedly orchestrated an assassination scheme against him in response to his outspoken comments. Dele took his concerns to the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Lagos State Police Command, formally reporting the alleged plot.
Dele attributed the purported threat on his life to his advocacy for keeping the Lekki Toll Gate operational during ongoing investigations.
Arrest
On December 3, 2024, Dele Farotimi was detained at the Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos following allegations of defamation brought against him by Tony Elumelu, the chairman of United Bank for Africa, and a separate complaint from senior lawyer Afe Babalola.
Dele refuted the claims, stating they were unfounded and intended to suppress his activism. His arrest drew widespread disapproval from fellow activists, with figures like Omoyele Sowore denouncing the police’s actions as an abuse of authority.
Personal Life
Dele Farotimi is married, but specific details about his wife and children remain private. While he is known for his public activism and legal work, he keeps his family life out of the spotlight, reflecting a commitment to maintaining personal privacy amid his professional endeavors.
Dele Farotimi Net Worth
Current information regarding Dele Farotimi’s net worth is not available in the provided search results. As a prominent human rights lawyer and political activist in Nigeria, his financial details are typically private and not widely reported.
Publications
Dele Farotimi has authored two notable books:
- Do Not Die in Their War (2019): A treatise addressing Nigeria’s political trajectories and advocating for systemic change.
- Imperatives of The Nigerian Revolution (2021): This work emphasizes the need for a revolution in Nigeria’s governance and constitutional framework.
Awards and Achievements
Farotimi is recognized for his contributions to legal practice and activism. Key achievements include:
- Founding his law firm, Dele Farotimi & Co. (now DF Legal) in 2002.
- Serving as President of the Student Union at Lagos State University during the 1994/1995 academic session.
- Being a vocal advocate for human rights and systemic reform in Nigeria, influencing public discourse on governance and accountability
