Nigeria Afe Babalola: Defamation Case Against Dele Farotimi to Proceed Despite Outcry

Afe Babalola refutes allegations from activist Dele Farotimi, citing defamation in Farotimi’s book. The activist faces a 16-count charge and remains in custody. Despite public outcry and calls for his release, Babalola insists on legal accountability, emphasizing the importance of addressing falsehoods through Nigeria's judicial system.

Renowned legal luminary Afe Babalola has addressed the arrest and prosecution of human rights advocate Dele Farotimi, citing the need to counter allegations of defamation and cyberbullying. Farotimi, detained in Lagos by Ekiti police operatives over a petition, faces a 16-count charge, including defamation linked to his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.

Farotimi alleged his arrest was orchestrated through questionable means despite honoring prior invitations from the Zone 2 Police Headquarters in Lagos. On Wednesday, the Ekiti State Magistrate Court remanded him after he pleaded not guilty.

The incident has sparked widespread social media outcry, with prominent figures like Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar calling for Farotimi’s release. Activist Omoyele Sowore has urged Nigerians to protest Farotimi’s prosecution, accusing the judiciary of stifling human rights advocacy.

Responding to the allegations, Afe Babalola & Co. stated that legal action against Farotimi is essential to uphold the firm’s reputation and counter what they describe as “reckless and malicious falsehoods.” A statement from the firm emphasized the importance of addressing defamatory claims within the bounds of the law.

While affirming the importance of free speech, the firm maintained that such freedom is not exempt from accountability. Stressing its commitment to justice, the firm declared that media campaigns and public protests would not deter the prosecution, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system to resolve the matter lawfully.