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Relief for Farotimi as Afe Babalola Withdraws Defamation Case Following Intervention by Ooni and Nine Ekiti Kings

Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi
Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi
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The decision, reportedly influenced by the intervention of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and nine other prominent monarchs, has been hailed as a significant victory for the activist. However, sources confirm the case has not been entirely dropped.

A high-profile meeting held at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), saw the presence of the Ooni of Ife alongside the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers. Attendees included the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro; the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe; the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole; the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu; the Oloye of Oye Ekiti, Oba Michael Ademolaju; and the Alaaye of Efon Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Aladejare.

His arrest followed a series of accusations, including defamation and cyberbullying, tied to his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, which allegedly exposed questionable practices in the judiciary and implicated Babalola.

Farotimi had previously expressed concerns for his safety, revealing that in 2021, he received intelligence about threats to his life involving six individuals. Despite reporting these threats to the police, no action was taken.

The situation escalated when Tony Elumelu filed a petition accusing Farotimi of defamation, leading to his initial questioning and subsequent release.

However, the police allegedly resorted to intimidation tactics, including interrogating his domestic staff and church members to lure him out before eventually abducting him from his home office.

The news of Farotimi’s arrest sparked widespread outrage, with Nigerians demanding his unconditional release.

Farotimi alleged that Babalola leveraged his influence over Ekiti State authorities to ensure his detention far from Lagos where the alleged offenses occurred.

He was eventually granted bail for ₦50 million, which was secured by former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi. Upon his release on December 24, 2024, Farotimi reaffirmed his commitment to speaking truth to power, stating, “I’ve never lied against anyone. We are fighting evil, and it will be tough.”

The LPDC dismissed the petition and attempts to remove Farotimi’s book from stores nationwide also failed. Despite these challenges, Farotimi’s resolve remained steadfast.

The intervention of the traditional rulers marked a turning point in the case. Their mediation highlights the influential role of monarchs in fostering peace and reconciliation in contentious matters. Nigerians have lauded their efforts, celebrating Farotimi’s resilience and applauding the triumph of justice over intimidation.

As Nigerians rally behind Dele Farotimi, his story serves as a potent reminder of the importance of courage and advocacy in the face of systemic challenges.

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Written by Shola Akinyele

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