The legal team representing Afe Babalola, SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University, has vowed to ensure justice in the ongoing defamation case against human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.
At a press conference held in Ado Ekiti on Friday, the lawyers, led by Owoseni Ajayi, Olakanmi Falade, and Lawrence Fasanmi, addressed allegations made by Farotimi in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.
The lawyers revealed that Babalola had petitioned the police to investigate and prosecute Farotimi for claims they described as defamatory.
They emphasized that Farotimi's allegations sought to tarnish the elder statesman's reputation, painstakingly built over decades of dedication to law and nation-building.
Farotimi was arrested in Lagos earlier this week and arraigned before an Ekiti State Magistrates Court, where he was remanded in custody pending a formal bail application.
Babalola’s lead counsel, Ajayi, clarified that the case was not an attempt to stifle free speech but to ensure accountability.
“Aare Afe Babalola is simply seeking justice. If Mr. Farotimi can substantiate his claims, he will be free,” Ajayi stated, adding that false publications calculated to harm a person’s reputation are punishable under Nigerian law.
Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Police Command has banned unlawful gatherings and protests, citing security concerns.
This follows plans by activist groups to organize nationwide demonstrations in support of Farotimi. The police urged residents to maintain peace, warning against any attempts to exploit the situation to disrupt public order.
The legal and public battle over the defamation case continues, with the next court hearing scheduled for December 10, 2024.