Afe Babalola withdraws suit against Farotimi

Afe Babalola, a prominent Nigerian lawyer and founder of Afe Babalola University, has withdrawn his defamation suits against human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.

This decision comes after the intervention of Yoruba traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who met with Babalola at his university in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital.

The defamation suits were filed in response to Farotimi’s book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” which allegedly contained defamatory content about Babalola.

Farotimi was arrested and arraigned in two courts in Ekiti State, facing charges of criminal defamation and cyberbullying.

He was granted bail after meeting the ₦30 million bail conditions set by a Chief Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti.

However, after the Ooni and other Yoruba monarchs intervened, Babalola agreed to withdraw the suits, stating that he would instruct his lawyers to do so.

The meeting, which took place at Afe Babalola University, was attended by prominent Yoruba monarchs, including the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro.

The Ooni assured Babalola that his reputation remained untarnished and praised his contributions to the Yoruba people and Nigeria.

He emphasized the importance of preserving Babalola’s reputation, stating that his name is “worth more than silver and gold.”

Farotimi, who was released from prison custody after 21 days, expressed his gratitude to Nigerians who rallied around him, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action in bringing about change.

Meanwhile, in a heartfelt video message titled “The Road to Freedom,” Farotimi noted that his experience is not unique, highlighting the struggles faced by many Nigerians.

He also touched on the divisive nature of Nigerian society, where people are often pitted against one another along ethnic and religious lines.

Farotimi emphasized that Nigerians must come together to fight for justice and freedom, rather than allowing themselves to be divided.

Farotimi’s allegations against Babalola

Dele Farotimi’s book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” contains allegations that Afe Babalola has used his influence and position to manipulate the judiciary and secure favorable outcomes for his clients.

Farotimi claimed that Babalola has influenced judicial appointments, using his connections to secure the appointment of judges who are favorable to his interests.

Farotimi also alleged that Babalola has manipulated court proceedings, including the selection of judges, the scheduling of cases, and the admission of evidence.

Additionally, Farotimi made serious allegations that Babalola has bribed judges to secure favorable judgments for his clients.

He further claimed that Babalola has used his influence to intimidate opponents, including lawyers and judges, who dare to challenge him or his clients.

It is essential to note that these allegations have not been proven in a court of law, and Babalola has denied all the allegations.

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