Peace Prevails: Afe Babalola Withdraws Suits After Royal Intervention

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Aare Afe Babalola SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, announced on Monday his decision to withdraw legal cases against activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi. This followed the intervention of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other prominent Yoruba monarchs.

Babalola had previously filed a petition accusing Farotimi of defamation in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. This led to Farotimi’s arrest and his arraignment in two courts in Ekiti State: a Magistrate Court for criminal defamation and a Federal High Court for alleged cyberbullying.

At a midnight meeting held at ABUAD, the Ooni and other monarchs, including the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, and the Alaaye of Efon Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Aladejare, appealed to Babalola to drop the case. In response, Babalola acknowledged their plea, stating, “I will instruct my lawyers to withdraw the case.”

He expressed deep hurt over Farotimi’s allegations of corruption but emphasized that he had nothing to gain from Farotimi’s imprisonment or damages. Babalola also highlighted his commitment to using his resources for the benefit of others, stating, “The only time I am happy is when I give.”

The Ooni, speaking on behalf of the monarchs, praised Babalola’s legacy and assured him that his reputation remained untarnished. He urged Babalola to view Farotimi as a son, adding that the traditional institution had resolved the matter.

The monarchs collectively emphasized the importance of unity and forgiveness, with the Ooni declaring, “Your name is more than silver and gold, and no one can tarnish it. The matter has been resolved in our way.”

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