Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Withdraws Defamation Cases Against Lawyer Dele Farotimi
Aare Afe Babalola SAN, the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, announced the withdrawal of lawsuits filed against activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi. This decision followed a midnight meeting mediated by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other prominent Yoruba monarchs.
Afe Babalola’s Lawsuit Against Dele Farotimi: The Backstory
Afe Babalola had filed petitions against Dele Farotimi, claiming defamation in the book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The allegations led to Farotimi’s arrest and subsequent arraignment in two separate courts in Ado Ekiti. He faced charges of criminal defamation in an Ekiti State Magistrate Court and cyberbullying in the Federal High Court.
Intervention by Ooni of Ife and Yoruba Monarchs
During the meeting at Afe Babalola University, Yoruba monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, persuaded Afe Babalola to withdraw the cases. Babalola acknowledged their influence and stated, “The monarchs are here, and they have appealed to me over a criminal charge involving someone who accused me of corruption.”
The meeting included notable traditional rulers such as the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro, and other esteemed monarchs. Their collective plea led to Babalola’s decision to discontinue the legal proceedings.
Afe Babalola’s Reaction to Defamatory Claims
Babalola expressed his disappointment over the accusations in Farotimi’s book, which alleged that he won cases through corruption. He revealed that prominent figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Catholic Bishop Mathew Kukah, had earlier appealed to him to drop the lawsuits. However, he resisted those requests until the Yoruba monarchs’ intervention.
He stated, “I felt so bad when Farotimi accused me of corruption. It hurt me deeply because of my humble beginnings. There is nothing I will gain from his imprisonment or damages. My happiness comes from giving and not from accumulating wealth.”
Ooni of Ife’s Assurance to Afe Babalola
Speaking on behalf of the monarchs, the Ooni of Ife assured Babalola that his reputation remained untarnished. He said, “Your name is more valuable than gold or silver. Nobody can tarnish your name.” The Ooni praised Afe Babalola’s contributions to the development of Yoruba, Nigeria, and the world.
Oba Ogunwusi added, “We are here as custodians of Yoruba culture to appeal to you. Dele Farotimi is your son. Some children may be tough or soft, but as a father, you have shown grace. We have resolved this matter in our own way.”
Allegations in Dele Farotimi’s Book
The lawsuit stemmed from claims in Farotimi’s book accusing Afe Babalola and other Senior Advocates of Nigeria of influencing Supreme Court justices through corruption. Afe Babalola filed a petition dated November 19, 2024, to the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, alleging that the book tarnished his reputation. Farotimi was arrested in Lagos by the Ekiti State Police Command and subsequently arraigned on a 16-count charge of criminal defamation and cyberbullying.
Resolution and the Role of Traditional Institutions
Afe Babalola’s decision to withdraw the cases underscores the significant role of traditional institutions in conflict resolution. He said, “I have finally agreed, after much persuasion, to instruct my lawyers to withdraw the case.” The intervention of Yoruba monarchs not only resolved the matter but also highlighted the enduring influence of traditional rulers in fostering peace and reconciliation.
