The Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola SAN, has agreed to withdraw legal cases against activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi.
This decision followed an intervention by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other Yoruba traditional rulers during a midnight meeting at ABUAD on Monday.
Farotimi had faced criminal defamation and cyber-bullying charges over allegations made in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, accusing Babalola of corruption. He was arraigned before an Ekiti Magistrate Court and the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti.
Afe Babalola, moved by the appeal of the monarchs, said, “I will tell my lawyers to withdraw the case.” He emphasized his disappointment with the accusations, noting his life’s journey from humble beginnings to prominence and rejecting earlier pleas from figures like former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Bishop Matthew Kukah.
Ooni Ogunwusi, speaking for the monarchs, lauded Babalola’s legacy, stating, “Your name is more than silver and gold.” The monarchs assured Babalola that his reputation remained untarnished and urged him to see Farotimi as a misguided son.
Babalola affirmed, “There is nothing I am going to gain from imprisonment or damages… The only time I am happy is when I give.” He agreed to withdraw the cases in deference to the Yoruba traditional institution and its values.
This resolution highlights the influence of Yoruba monarchs in mediating disputes and preserving harmony within the community.