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By Chigozie Nwabunwanne
Chancellor and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, has announced that he has withdrawn his criminal defamation case against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria made this announcement following the intervention of Yoruba traditional rulers led by Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, during a meeting at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti(ABUAD) on Sunday, 26th January 2024.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to Babalola, he withdrew his charges against Farotimi following the request of the Ooni of Ife. He said that in Yoruba culture, a statement from the Ooni is a command, so he had no choice but to comply.
The controversy began after Farotimi published a bestseller book titled Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, where he accused Babalola of corruption within the Nigerian judiciary. Babalola, in his response, questioned why anyone would attempt to undermine his legacy and long-standing efforts to contribute to the country’s progress.
“I rejected an oil block, defended the EFCC law, and rejected ministerial nominees twice. Why would anyone just wake up and try to rubbish all I’ve laboured for?” Babalola said.
READ ALSO: Ekiti Court Finally Grants Farotimi N30m Bail, Must Not Speak To Media
He further stated that his plan was not the imprisonment of Farotimi, but to seek justice.
“I have nothing to gain from his imprisonment, I am happy each time I give,” said Babalola.
The Ooni of Ife who played key role in the reconciliation process commended Babalola for his forgiveness, efforts and contributions to Yoruba culture and to the Nigeria legal system.
“We Obas can attest to the hard work of Aare Afe Babalola and how he has invested so much to build his name,” the Ooni said.
“He has proven to the world that he cherishes his name and the world has heard him loud and clear.” He continued.
“Dele Farotimi is our son,” he said “we give birth to different children in this world and as elders when our children offend us as Yoruba after a little spank, we also pardon such children.”
