Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has refuted claims that he sought anyone’s intervention to plead with Afe Babalola (SAN), who has taken him to court for defamation.
Farotimi is currently on trial in Ekiti State over allegations stemming from his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, which led Afe Babalola to file a petition against him. Recent reports suggested that Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, had visited Afe Babalola and subsequently Farotimi, raising speculation that the visit was intended to broker peace on Farotimi’s behalf.
Farotimi’s Lawyer Speaks Out
In a Sunday interview on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, Temokun, a member of Farotimi’s legal team, addressed the controversy. He revealed details of his conversation with Farotimi during a visit to the Ado-Ekiti correctional facility, where the lawyer is being detained.
Temokun clarified that Farotimi firmly denied seeking an out-of-court settlement or asking anyone, including Peter Obi, to plead on his behalf.
“I visited Mr. Dele Farotimi at the correctional service in Ado-Ekiti yesterday. There has been a lot of confusion about recent events, particularly the visit of Mr. Peter Obi to Aare Afe Babalola and subsequently to Mr. Farotimi. People are unclear about what these visits mean and whether they are related to the ongoing case,” Temokun said.
Farotimi’s Position on the Allegations
According to Temokun, Farotimi was adamant that he would not compromise his principles by seeking anyone’s intervention.
“He categorically told me, ‘If anyone who knows my history, principles, or philosophy believes that I sent someone to beg Aare Afe Babalola, I would be deeply disappointed in them.’ He made it clear that he never authorized any plea or apology, and any suggestion otherwise is baseless,” Temokun stated.
Farotimi, who remains steadfast in his stance, reportedly views the truth as his ultimate defense.
Background of the Case
The legal dispute arises from statements made in Farotimi’s book, which Afe Babalola considers defamatory. The book critiques Nigeria’s criminal justice system, and some of its claims have sparked contention between the two legal luminaries.
Peter Obi’s Visit Fuels Speculation
Peter Obi’s recent visit to both Afe Babalola and Farotimi heightened public interest in the case, with many speculating that the visit was an attempt to mediate between the two parties. However, Farotimi has unequivocally denied any involvement in such efforts.
Farotimi’s Message to Supporters
Temokun emphasized that Farotimi remains in high spirits, urging his supporters to focus on the broader fight for justice. “He sees this as a struggle for truth and integrity. His message to everyone, including his legal team, is clear: he stands by his convictions and refuses to beg or compromise,” Temokun added.
Awaiting Trial Outcome
As the case unfolds, Farotimi’s principled stance and the public scrutiny surrounding the trial highlight broader issues within Nigeria’s justice system. Meanwhile, both sides await the court’s decision on the matter.
