DELE FAROTIMI: Group rallies behind Afe Babalola, insists on justice

A coalition of professors and legal professionals under the banner of Justice4AfeBabalolaLegacy (JABL) has voiced strong support for the legal icon, Chief Afe Babalola, warning against any form of defamation directed at him.

Speaking at a press briefing in Ibadan, members of JABL, including Professors Adeyemi Ademowo, Ademola Azeez, Ayodeji Emmanuel, and lawyers Femi Alufa and Rotimi Opeyeoluwa, expressed their commitment to ensuring justice prevails in the ongoing case between Chief Afe Babalola and Mr. Dele Farotimi.

The group condemned what they described as baseless allegations against Babalola, emphasizing his immense contributions to the legal profession and national development.

“At 96, we will not sit by and watch someone tarnish the legacy of a man who has achieved so much through sheer hard work,” said Mr. Femi Alufa, the group’s convener.

JABL argued that being a human rights activist does not grant anyone the license to make unsubstantiated claims.

“Justice must be served to both parties in this case. Human rights must not infringe upon another person’s rights. Chief Afe Babalola has every right to defend his reputation against defamation,” Alufa added.

The group also addressed the court’s decision to ban the sale of the book at the center of the controversy, warning that citing the book would now be considered criminal.

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“Nobody worth their salt will cite the book because it is not based on fact,” said Alufa. “We have a generation of people who resent success. Until the court resolves this matter, we will not engage in rumors or hearsay.”

Highlighting Chief Babalola’s contributions, the group noted, “Afe has produced more Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and lawyers than anyone in this country. We want the world to know we believe in him and his legacy.”

They also took issue with claims that libel should only be treated as a civil matter.

The group defended Chief Babalola’s decision to pursue criminal defamation charges, pointing out that in some Nigerian states, libel is both a civil and criminal offense.

“People who say libel is strictly a civil matter are either uninformed or deliberately misleading. In some states like Edo and Abuja, it is treated as civil, but in others, it can be criminal. If Chief Afe chooses to pursue criminal defamation, it is his right,” stated Opeyeoluwa.

He added, “You cannot dictate how someone seeks legal redress as long as it is within the confines of the law.”

The group concluded by reiterating the need for a fair and unbiased resolution to the case.

“Justice must be served for both Mr. Farotimi and Chief Afe Babalola. This is not about taking sides but ensuring the truth prevails and justice is upheld,” they stated.

JABL emphasized that Chief Afe Babalola’s reputation and contributions deserve protection and respect, urging all parties to allow the legal process to run its course.

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