By Gideon Maxwell
January 27, 2025
Afe Babalola, a renowned Nigerian lawyer and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, has agreed to withdraw his defamation suits against human rights activist Dele Farotimi.
This decision reportedly follows a visit by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other prominent Yoruba monarchs to Babalola’s residence at ABUAD.
The Ooni and other traditional rulers intervened to resolve the dispute amicably, emphasising the importance of maintaining peace and unity within the Yoruba community.
Babalola had initially sued Farotimi over allegations of defamation in Farotimi’s book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” which suggested Babalola had won cases through corrupt means.
Despite earlier appeals from figures like former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Hassan Kukah, Babalola only agreed to withdraw the cases after the monarchs’ intervention.
He stated that he would direct his lawyers to withdraw the case, emphasising that he had nothing to gain from Farotimi’s imprisonment and that his name was intact.
The Ooni commended Babalola for his integrity and contributions to Yoruba and global development, urging him not to relent in his efforts despite the controversy.
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The withdrawal of the cases marks a significant resolution to the dispute, highlighting the role of traditional leaders in mediating conflicts and promoting peace in Nigeria.
How it started
Babalola had been involved in a legal dispute with Dele Farotimi, a prominent lawyer and activist over allegations of defamation made by Farotimi in his book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.”
In the book, Farotimi suggested that Babalola had won cases through corrupt means, which Babalola vehemently denied.
Legal proceedings
Babalola subsequently filed defamation lawsuits against Farotimi, seeking damages for the alleged harm to his reputation.
The legal battle gained significant attention in Nigeria, with many legal and political figures weighing in on the matter.
Despite Babalola’s reputation as a respected legal figure, the allegations in Farotimi’s book sparked a heated debate about the integrity of the Nigerian legal system.
Meeting with Yoruba monarchs
In a midnight meeting, Babalola met with prominent Yoruba monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
The meeting was convened to resolve the dispute amicably and to protect the reputation of both parties involved.
The monarchs emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and unity within the Yoruba community and beyond.
Withdrawal of cases
Following the meeting, Babalola agreed to withdraw the defamation cases against Farotimi.
In a statement, Babalola emphasised that his decision was not an admission of wrongdoing but rather a gesture of goodwill and respect for the Yoruba monarchs who intervened.
He stated, “I will tell my lawyers to withdraw the case,” adding that his name is intact and that he seeks no personal gain from the matter.
Reaction from the Ooni
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, praised Babalola for his contributions to Yoruba and global development.
He assured Babalola that his name was beyond tarnish, emphasising the importance of maintaining harmony and avoiding actions that could further divide the community.
Implications
The resolution of the dispute between Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi through the intervention of Yoruba monarchs demonstrates the power of community leadership in resolving conflicts.
It also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and respect in public discourse.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex legal and social issues, such interventions can play a crucial role in fostering unity and promoting justice.
