Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, the founder of Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti, has decided to drop the criminal defamation charges against human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi. This decision followed appeals from several influential Yoruba monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and prominent leaders from Ekiti. These traditional rulers met at the university and urged Babalola to reconsider pursuing the charges. Notable figures present included Oba Rufus Adejuyigbe, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, and Oba Adejimi Adu, the Ogoga of Ikere.

Farotimi faced charges related to criminal defamation and cybercrime due to allegations made in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, which Babalola claimed damaged his reputation. The activist was initially remanded by a Magistrates’ Court, with bail set at N30 million, later increased to N50 million by the Federal High Court.

Following a private meeting with the Yoruba leaders, Oba Ogunwusi addressed the media, explaining that the case was under close observation by Yoruba leaders. He emphasized Babalola’s reputation for integrity, urging him to reconsider the charges in the interest of harmony.

Babalola acknowledged the pleas from various individuals, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Mathew Kukah. Despite initially rejecting these requests, he decided to withdraw the charges after the intervention of the traditional rulers, stating that his wealth and reputation were not his primary concern. He expressed a desire for peace and announced that he would instruct his lawyers to drop the case, bringing the matter to a close.

by News12paper