Afe Babalola Forgives Dele Farotimi After Yoruba Monarchs Mediate in Defamation Dispute
Following the intervention of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other prominent Yoruba monarchs, the founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, has agreed to withdraw the criminal defamation suit he filed against human rights activist, Mr. Dele Farotimi.
The decision comes after several key Nigerian figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Bishop Matthew Kukah, and others, personally appealed to Babalola. Despite initially rejecting these appeals, Babalola cited the involvement of the Ooni and other influential traditional rulers as a turning point in his decision to forgive Farotimi.
“I have received numerous appeals, including from the Ewi of Ado, Obasanjo, and Kukah, and I had consistently turned them down,” Babalola said. “But when I heard the Ooni was coming, I realized I was in a difficult position. There’s nothing I would gain from Farotimi’s imprisonment, and I don’t seek further wealth. I am concerned with managing the wealth I already have. Therefore, Dele Farotimi is hereby forgiven.”
Obi Welcomes Decision, Praises Dialogue
Reacting to Babalola’s decision, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, expressed his support. Obi, who was involved in the mediation process, commended the peaceful resolution of the matter, highlighting the importance of dialogue and constructive engagement in resolving disputes.
Obi’s media aide, Ibrahim Umar, clarified that Obi’s involvement was not about asking for a pardon for Farotimi, but rather an effort to facilitate conflict resolution. He praised both Babalola and the Yoruba monarchs for their commitment to peace.
“We are pleased that the matter has been resolved amicably,” Umar said. “This outcome shows that both parties were willing to seek peace, and we commend all those involved for their efforts.”
Afenifere Commends Babalola for Respecting Yoruba Monarchs
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, also expressed support for Babalola’s decision, applauding him for showing respect to the Yoruba monarchs.
Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jare Ajayi, commended Babalola for embodying the values of Omoluabi—a Yoruba concept emphasizing integrity, respect, and decency.
Ajayi noted that Babalola’s willingness to drop the charges was a sign of maturity and a demonstration of the important role traditional institutions play in resolving conflicts. He also commended the Ooni and other monarchs for their leadership in bringing about the resolution.
“The elders have acted in line with the Yoruba tradition, showing the vital role that our Obas can play in ensuring peace and harmony within our society,” Ajayi said.
A Step Toward Unity and Peace
The withdrawal of the defamation suit is seen as a significant step toward promoting unity and peace within the Yoruba community and beyond. Both the mediation efforts and the eventual resolution reflect the value placed on tradition, dialogue, and respect for authority within Nigerian society.
