Renowned legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), has announced that he has forgiven human rights activist Dele Farotimi, whom he had earlier accused of defamation.
Babalola made this known during a visit by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and a delegation of prominent Yoruba traditional rulers who appealed for clemency on Farotimi’s behalf. He also disclosed plans to instruct his legal team to withdraw the defamation lawsuit filed against the activist.
Farotimi had faced allegations of defamation stemming from claims made in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. The case led to his detention at a correctional facility for several weeks before he was eventually granted bail.
A statement issued by the Ooni’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, highlighted the monarch’s efforts in mediating the dispute. According to the statement, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, alongside other traditional rulers from Ekiti State, arrived at ABUAD late Sunday night to appeal for leniency.
Their arrival at 10:08 pm was met by Aare Afe Babalola, accompanied by ABUAD’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde; the university’s Bursar, Pastor Joseph Modupe Babalola; the school’s Public Relations Officer; faculty deans; and the legal team handling the case.
Acknowledging the monarchs’ intervention, Aare Babalola graciously accepted their request, reiterating his respect for their esteemed offices and stating his willingness to put the matter to rest.
The gesture of forgiveness underscores the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in resolving disputes, especially among key figures in society.
