Afe Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University, agreed to withdraw his lawsuits against lawyer Dele Farotimi after intervention from the Ooni of Ife and other Yoruba monarchs. The legal dispute stemmed from accusations of corruption in Farotimi's book. Reactions on social media have varied regarding Babalola's decision.
Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, agreed to withdraw his lawsuits against activist lawyer Dele Farotimi after intervention from the Ooni of Ife and other Yoruba monarchs. The legal dispute stemmed from Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, in which he accused Babalola of corruption. Babalola had petitioned the Ekiti State police, leading to Farotimi’s arrest and subsequent charges for criminal defamation and cyberbullying.
Babalola initially resisted appeals from figures like former President Obasanjo and Bishop Mathew Kukah to drop the charges. However, after a midnight meeting at ABUAD with several influential monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, Babalola decided to relent. He publicly stated that he would instruct his lawyers to withdraw the case. The Ooni, speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, emphasized that Babalola’s reputation could not be tarnished, noting his immense contributions to the Yoruba community and his longstanding respect for his name.
Reactions on social media have been mixed. Some commenters, like Schrödinger
, questioned Babalola’s decision, suggesting it reflected weakness rather than wisdom. Others, such as Tobi Akinbo J., speculated about underlying motivations, questioning whether Babalola feared further exposure. On the other hand, some praised Babalola’s action as a show of maturity and fatherly love, echoing sentiments of respect for the traditional institution and peace. Despite the controversy, the intervention of the Yoruba monarchs played a crucial role in resolving the legal matter amicably.
