Legal Twist: Afe Babalola Drops Lawsuit Against Dele Farotimi In Sh*cking Turn Of Events

This resolution follows the intervention of prominent Yoruba monarchs, led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

A midnight meeting held at ABUAD, attended by traditional rulers such as 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, culminated in Babalola agreeing to the monarchs’ plea.

The legal battle stemmed from allegations in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, where he accused Babalola of corruption and using improper means to win cases. Despite being arraigned in two courts in Ekiti State, Farotimi’s legal troubles drew widespread attention and appeals from prominent figures such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Bishop Matthew Kukah, and Oba Adejugbe. Initially, Babalola refused to back down, citing the severity of the accusations.

“I felt hurt because he accused me of corruption. He also attacked many judges by name in the pamphlet, but I am bothered because of how I started my life,” Babalola stated. He emphasized that he sought neither imprisonment nor damages, noting, “There is nothing to gain from his imprisonment. I am not in quest of more wealth but to use what I have for the benefit of others.”

Speaking on behalf of the monarchs, the Ooni of Ife urged Babalola to forgive, assuring him that his legacy remains untarnished. “Your name is more than silver and gold. Nobody can tarnish your reputation. You have shown the world that you cherish your name,” Ogunwusi said.

Acknowledging Babalola’s significant contributions to Nigeria and Yoruba heritage, the Ooni added, “Dele Farotimi is your son. Some children are difficult, others are soft. We, as traditional leaders, have resolved the matter in our own way.”

Moved by their appeal, Babalola agreed, stating, “Thank you, Kabiyesis. I will instruct my lawyers to withdraw the cases.”