In a significant development, Aare Afe Babalola, a prominent legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, has announced the withdrawal of criminal defamation charges against fellow lawyer and civil rights activist Dele Farotimi. This decision comes after a heartfelt appeal from the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, along with other esteemed Yoruba traditional rulers.
The legal dispute arose following allegations made by Farotimi in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where he accused Babalola of corrupt practices within the judiciary. Babalola initially pursued legal action against Farotimi, which included a series of criminal charges that led to Farotimi's arrest and subsequent bail conditions set at N50 million.
In a meeting held late Sunday night at Afe Babalola University, the Ooni and other traditional leaders urged Babalola to reconsider his stance. During this gathering, Babalola expressed gratitude for the intervention and acknowledged the cultural significance of the appeal. He stated, “I had previously rejected pleas from many influential figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Mathew Kukah. However, out of respect for our traditional institutions and the Ooni's request, I have decided to withdraw the case.”
Babalola emphasized that his decision was not motivated by personal gain or a desire for retribution. “I have nothing to gain from imprisoning Farotimi. My focus is on how to utilize my resources for the betterment of others,” he remarked. He further noted that he felt compelled to act in accordance with Yoruba customs that prioritize forgiveness and community harmony.
The Ooni of Ife praised Babalola for his magnanimity and highlighted the importance of unity within the Yoruba community. He stated, “Dele Farotimi is your son; as elders, we must guide our children with both discipline and forgiveness.”
While Babalola has chosen to withdraw his personal charges, it is important to note that some members of his legal team intend to pursue their own separate actions against Farotimi based on similar claims of defamation.