Afe Babalola Withdraws Defamation Cases Against Dele Farotimi After Monarchs’ Appeal
Aare Afe Babalola SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), has agreed to withdraw defamation cases filed against human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi. This decision followed an appeal by prominent Yoruba monarchs, led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, during a midnight meeting.
The legal dispute stemmed from allegations made by Farotimi in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, where he accused Babalola of corruption. This led to Farotimi’s arrest and subsequent trials for criminal defamation and cyberbullying at the Ekiti State Magistrate Court and the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti.
Despite previous appeals from figures like former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Matthew Kukah, Babalola had initially refused to drop the charges. However, he reconsidered after the Yoruba monarchs intervened. Speaking after the meeting, Babalola expressed his disappointment over the accusations but acknowledged there was no personal gain in pursuing the cases.
“There is nothing I am going to gain from his imprisonment or from damages. My happiness comes from giving and contributing to others’ lives,” Babalola stated. He also highlighted his journey from humble beginnings and his commitment to upholding his reputation.
The Ooni of Ife, representing the traditional rulers, praised Babalola’s contributions to society and assured him that his legacy could not be tarnished. “Your name is more than silver and gold. We, the obas, recognize your hard work and integrity,” the Ooni said.
Acknowledging the monarchs’ intervention, Babalola announced his intention to instruct his lawyers to withdraw the cases. The monarchs emphasized unity and reconciliation, urging Babalola to see Farotimi as a son who deserves forgiveness.
This resolution shows the value of traditional institutions in fostering peace and reconciliation within the Yoruba community and beyond.
