In a surprising turn of events, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, a distinguished lawyer and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), has agreed to withdraw criminal defamation charges against human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi. This decision marks a crucial moment in a high-profile case that had sparked significant legal and public attention. The charges, which were initially levied against Farotimi over allegations made in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, accused Babalola of influencing Supreme Court judges. According to TheNigerian Reporter, the resolution of this case came after a significant intervention by Yoruba monarchs, led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
Farotimi had been facing serious criminal defamation and cybercrime charges in an Ekiti State Magistrates’ Court and the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti. These charges stemmed from the contents of his book, which claimed that Babalola used his influence to affect judicial decisions. However, despite multiple appeals for the case to be withdrawn from various prominent figures—including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Matthew Kukah—Babalola initially rejected these entreaties. TheNigerian Reporter highlights that it was the intervention of the Yoruba monarchs that played a pivotal role in changing his stance.
The involvement of the Yoruba monarchs came at a crucial point when the case threatened to escalate tensions within the Yoruba community and Nigeria at large. Recognizing the potential for further division, these traditional rulers took it upon themselves to mediate the dispute. Their intervention was seen as a necessary step to ensure that the case did not undermine the unity and stability of the Yoruba people. In a private meeting held at ABUAD’s White Rock in Ado-Ekiti, which lasted for several hours into the early hours of Sunday morning, the monarchs presented a united front, appealing to Babalola to withdraw the charges against Farotimi.
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The monarchs made it clear to Babalola that the defamation case was causing unnecessary tension and division among Nigerians. They emphasized that, for the greater good of the country, it would be in everyone’s best interest to resolve the matter amicably. This was not only a plea for peace but also a call for the preservation of the integrity of the Yoruba people and their collective ethos. Following the meeting, Oba Ogunwusi spoke to the press, expressing satisfaction with the outcome and confirming that Babalola had agreed to withdraw the charges.
Oba Ogunwusi, who spoke on behalf of the Yoruba monarchs, was full of praise for Babalola, acknowledging his long-standing reputation for integrity and stating that his name had remained untarnished throughout his career. The Ooni emphasized that the monarchs’ plea was not just about resolving a personal dispute but was also about preserving the dignity and unity of the Yoruba race. He described the decision to intervene as being in line with Yoruba values, which prioritize the collective good over individual interests. He also praised Babalola for his contributions to the legal profession, noting that his reputation for honesty and fairness had been well-established over the years.
Oba Ogunwusi’s statement also touched on the nature of conflict resolution within the Yoruba community. He explained that the traditional rulers had come together not only to mediate in the dispute but also to offer guidance to Babalola. “We are coming together as a race to take this thing from you,” Oba Ogunwusi said, signaling the unity and collective power of the Yoruba monarchs. He further clarified that while Babalola might not have personally wished to withdraw the charges, the monarchs’ plea was being made in the spirit of unity and race preservation.
In his speech, Oba Ogunwusi also spoke compassionately about Farotimi, describing him as a “son” of Babalola, even though the two may not have been personally acquainted. This remark was an acknowledgment of the complexity of human relationships, with the monarch recognizing that, while people may have different personalities and ways of engaging with the world, they must find ways to reconcile for the common good. The Yoruba monarchs’ intervention thus illustrated their role as custodians of peace, unity, and tradition, which has been a hallmark of their leadership throughout history.
In conclusion, the resolution of the defamation case against Dele Farotimi is a significant moment in Nigeria’s legal and cultural history. The decision by Chief Afe Babalola to withdraw the charges, facilitated by the intervention of the Yoruba monarchs, represents a triumph of diplomacy and unity. As reported by TheNigerian Reporter, this case has highlighted the critical role of traditional leaders in mediating conflicts and preserving the fabric of Nigerian society. The monarchs’ intervention reflects their commitment to the well-being of the Yoruba nation and serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in resolving disputes that affect not just individuals but entire communities. The eventual resolution of the case, with Babalola agreeing to forgive and move on from the charges, is a testament to the influence of traditional institutions in modern Nigeria.
