In a significant development, renowned legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola SAN, has decided to withdraw the lawsuits filed against activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi. This decision followed a late-night intervention led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, along with other prominent Yoruba traditional rulers. Background on the Lawsuit Afe Babalola had earlier petitioned the Ekiti State Police Commissioner, alleging that Dele Farotimi defamed him in a book titled Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The allegations led to Farotimi’s arrest and arraignment in two Ekiti courts on charges of criminal defamation and cyberbullying. Despite appeals from notable figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Mathew Kukah, Babalola initially chose to pursue the case. Resolution Through Traditional Intervention After persistent efforts from Yoruba monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, Afe Babalola agreed to drop the charges. Speaking at ABUAD, he explained his decision: “If you go through the pamphlet [Farotimi’s book], you will see that he attacked many judges by name, including Supreme Court judges, and none is bothered. But I am bothered because of where and how I started life, from the farm to where I am. “There is nothing I stand to gain from his imprisonment or damages. I am not seeking more wealth but looking for ways to spend what I have for the benefit of others. The only time I am truly happy is when I give.” Babalola revealed that while he initially resisted interventions from figures like Obasanjo and Kukah, he ultimately accepted the Yoruba monarchs’ appeal: “The request is simple—take away this criminal case in court. On this occasion, I say yes. Thank you, Kabiyesis. I will instruct my lawyers to withdraw the case.” Yoruba Monarchs Commend Babalola The Ooni of Ife, speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, lauded Babalola’s immense contributions to the Yoruba race, Nigeria, and the world. “We, the Obas, can attest to the hard work of Aare Afe Babalola in building his name. His name cannot and will not be tarnished. Baba, Dele Farotimi is your son; you may not know him personally, but as elders, we guide our children—whether they are tough, soft, or hard. This matter has been resolved, and your name remains intact.” The Ooni further emphasized the collective strength of the Yoruba race in addressing disputes: “We have combined forces with the traditional institution and done the needful. Enough is enough. Your name is intact, Baba.” Key Takeaways Afe Babalola’s decision to withdraw the lawsuit highlights the strength of traditional intervention in fostering reconciliation and unity. This resolution serves as a testament to the enduring influence of cultural values in resolving disputes within Yoruba society and beyond. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Activist lawyer Dele Farotimi reaffirms his commitment to truth after his release from detention, addressing allegations against SAN Afe Babalola and Nigeria’s criminal justice system. Activist lawyer and author Dele Farotimi has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to truth following his release from detention. Farotimi, well-known for his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, reiterated allegations made against Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola, asserting that his claims are factual and rooted in honesty. Speaking to journalists on Tuesday after leaving the Ekiti State Correctional Centre, Farotimi declared, “I have never lied against anyone. If I don’t know, I will say I don’t know. The truth is enough—it is the only weapon with which you can slay the monster called Nigeria.” Arrest and Bail Conditions Farotimi was arrested earlier this month over allegations of defamation related to statements in his book that accused Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), of unethical practices within Nigeria’s legal system. Following his arrest, he was detained at the Ekiti State Correctional Centre. On Friday, December 20, a magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti granted him bail with stringent conditions. These included: After meeting these conditions, Farotimi was freed, continuing to stand by his allegations and defend his stance. Commitment to Truth Farotimi remains firm in his beliefs, acknowledging the risks associated with challenging powerful individuals and systems. “I understand the challenges that come with fighting entrenched powers, but I remain steadfast in my commitment to the truth,” he remarked. The lawyer’s case has sparked widespread debate about freedom of expression and the role of activism in addressing systemic flaws in Nigeria’s criminal justice system. Farotimi’s determination to expose corruption and promote justice underscores his reputation as a fearless advocate for change. Key Takeaways: READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Court Grants Bail Amid Cybercrime Allegations ADO-EKITI — The Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti has granted bail to human rights lawyer and activist, Mr. Dele Farotimi, following a 12-count cybercrime charge filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. Justice Babs Kuewumi ruled in favor of a N50 million bail with a surety residing in Ekiti. The court also ordered Farotimi to surrender his international passport as a condition for bail. The trial is set to resume on January 29, 2025. Case Background The charges stem from a petition filed by Aare Afe Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), alleging defamation in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Judicial System. Farotimi was initially arraigned at a magistrate’s court before the IGP filed a fresh suit (FHC/AD/CR/104/2024) at the Federal High Court. The defense team expressed relief over the bail ruling, with counsel Ralph Nwoke commending the court’s decision. Tensions Surrounding the Trial Meanwhile, the Justice for Afe Babalola Legacy (JABL) group warned against planned protests in Ado-Ekiti regarding the legal dispute. The group, led by Chief Michael Osaloni, criticized Farotimi and his supporters for allegedly disrupting national peace through agitation. Osaloni’s Statement:“Farotimi and others are professional protesters. They turn minor issues into chaos. If they protest in Ado-Ekiti, we are prepared to face them unless stopped by the police. Actions have consequences.” Demand for Evidence The Publicity Secretary of JABL, Rotimi Opeyeoluwa, urged Farotimi to substantiate his allegations of corruption against Aare Afe Babalola, as claimed in his book. Opeyeoluwa added:“This isn’t a case of David and Goliath. We demand evidence supporting his claims. The integrity of our legal icon, Afe Babalola, must remain untarnished.” Nationwide Protests Amid the legal proceedings, activist Omoyele Sowore called for nationwide protests in Ekiti, Lagos, Abuja, and even London, further intensifying public attention on the case. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
