Farotimi And Babalola’s Defamation Case Sparks Tensions Across Nigeria, Warns Nzeakor

Lawyer Fred Nzeakor has argued that the alleged defamation case between rights activist Dele Farotimi and legal icon Afe Babalola has created a significant divide in Nigeria.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He explained that on one side are the conservatives who support Babalola, viewing his 61 years of service as being undermined, while on the other side are the radicals who are focused solely on the need for a better Nigeria, regardless of who is involved.

Nzeakor also pointed out that the legal battle has broader implications for Nigeria’s judiciary and the country’s ability to attract foreign investors.

During an interview with Arise News, Nzeakor said, “This is a long journey for both Mr. Farotimi and Chief Afe Babalola, and it’s an even longer journey for Nigeria as a whole because this issue has divided the nation.”

He continued, “On one side, you have conservatives sympathetic to Chief Afe Babalola because they feel his extensive service is at risk of being overshadowed. On the other hand, the radicals are concerned only with creating a better Nigeria. They believe that now is as good a time as any to pursue a more rational and just system, especially within the judiciary.”

Nzeakor also expressed concern about the message this case sends to the international community and potential investors, questioning how Nigeria’s judicial credibility is perceived.

“It is unfortunate because perception matters,” he said. “How is this being received by the Nigerian public and the international community? We are trying to attract investors, but what message are we sending them about Nigeria’s legal system?”

He emphasized that foreign investors want to see a reliable judicial system where disputes can be resolved fairly. “If there are disagreements, how are they handled? Can the judiciary be trusted to deliver justice?”

Nzeakor also raised concerns about the handling of the case by the Magistrate court, hinting at possible outside influence. “The magistrate cannot honestly claim to be acting purely on his own will. If he were, there would be no reason not to grant bail and allow the individual to address the charges in court.”

He further questioned the legal complexities surrounding the case, such as whether the defamation charge is valid in Ekiti and whether an order from a Nigerian court could be enforced by international companies like Amazon.

“The situation is very tricky, especially as the public awaits a final resolution,” he concluded. “Will we prioritize public interest, or allow the integrity of individuals to be disregarded?”

Farotimi was arrested last Tuesday by the Ekiti State Police Command on charges of defamation and cyberbullying, stemming from allegations that he spread false information about Afe Babalola.