Aare Afe Babalola, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and founder of Afe Babalola University, has addressed the ongoing controversy involving human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi. Speaking through his legal team—Owoseni Ajayi, Olakanmi Falade, and Lawrence Fasanmi—Babalola stated that Farotimi would be exonerated if he could substantiate the allegations made against him.
During a press briefing in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Friday, the lawyers clarified that Babalola had petitioned the police to investigate claims made by Farotimi in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. They added that Farotimi’s arraignment was a legal process meant to ensure justice.
The Defamation Allegations
According to Babalola’s legal team, Farotimi’s statements in the book were defamatory and aimed at tarnishing the senior advocate’s hard-earned reputation.
Owoseni Ajayi remarked, “All facts are verifiable. Nigerians are encouraged to seek the truth before taking sides. Aare Afe Babalola, in his petition, requested the police to invite Mr. Dele Farotimi to provide proof of his claims. If he cannot, he should face prosecution for criminal defamation under Nigerian law.”
The petition also requested:
- The confiscation of all defamatory publications pending the conclusion of investigations.
- An injunction preventing Farotimi or his agents from further publishing defamatory content.
Ajayi defended Babalola’s pursuit of justice, questioning, “Is it wrong for Aare Afe Babalola to seek redress for false statements against him? Justice is for everyone, regardless of status.”
Legal Proceedings
Farotimi was arrested by Ekiti State police in Lagos on Tuesday following Babalola’s petition and arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday.
The Chief Magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, ordered Farotimi’s remand in a correctional facility while adjourning the case to December 10, 2024. Although Farotimi’s legal counsel pleaded for bail, the court deferred its decision.
Ajayi commended the police for their swift actions, stating, “The arrest and arraignment were handled appropriately. Defamation is a crime in Ekiti, and since the book was distributed within the state, the jurisdiction is established.”
Freedom Through Proof
The legal team emphasized that Farotimi could secure his freedom if he proved the truth of his allegations. Ajayi noted, “The law permits free speech, but not at the expense of another’s reputation. Once Farotimi substantiates his claims, justice will prevail.”
The case continues to generate public interest as the December hearing approaches.
