In a significant turn of events, Aare Afe Babalola, the esteemed founder of Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti, has decided to drop all criminal defamation charges against human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.
This resolution came after heartfelt appeals from prominent figures, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other distinguished traditional rulers, as well as influential personalities such as Bishop Kukah and former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The charges stemmed from Farotimi’s book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” in which he alleged that Babalola had corrupted the judiciary.
Addressing journalists, Babalola expressed that he felt compelled to heed the wisdom of the Yoruba traditional leaders, emphasizing that the words of an Oba hold great authority in their culture.
Oba Ogunwusi lauded Babalola for his immense contributions to the Yoruba people, the nation, and the global community, further urging him to consider the collective pleas for reconciliation.
This gesture marks a moment of unity and understanding, showcasing the power of traditional institutions in resolving disputes.
Editor Paul Akhagbemhe
