The founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola SAN, has agreed to discontinue the defamation and cyberbullying cases filed against activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi.
AFRIPOST gathered that the decision followed a late-night meeting at ABUAD, facilitated by Yoruba traditional rulers and led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
The gathering was attended by notable monarchs, including 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; and the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu.
Babalola had pursued legal action after Farotimi, in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, accused him of corruption and influencing legal cases through improper means.
Farotimi was arraigned in two courts in Ekiti State over the allegations.
Despite earlier pleas from prominent figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Bishop Matthew Kukah, and Oba Adejugbe, Babalola had maintained his stance, citing the gravity of the accusations.
“I felt deeply hurt by the claims of corruption. While other judges mentioned in the book may have remained indifferent, I couldn’t ignore the damage to my reputation,” he explained.
However, the Ooni of Ife, representing the traditional rulers, appealed to Babalola to let the matter rest, emphasizing that his legacy and honour were intact.
“Your name is worth more than silver and gold. No one can tarnish it. You’ve shown the world the value of integrity,” Ogunwusi said.
He further urged reconciliation, stating, “Dele Farotimi is like your son. Some children are difficult, others are gentle.
“As traditional leaders, we have resolved this matter in a way that upholds peace and respect.”
Moved by the monarchs’ collective appeal, Babalola agreed to withdraw the lawsuits, stating, “Thank you, Your Majesties. I will instruct my lawyers to terminate the cases.”
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