Farotimi: Advocacy group demands justice for Afe Babalola
As legal proceedings over allegations of defamation by prominent human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi, against legal luminary, Afe Babalola, an advocacy group – Justice for Afe Babalola Legacy (JABL) – has expressed confidence in the judiciary’s ability to uphold fairness and deliver justice. It would be recalled that Dele Farotimi’s recently published book, titled ‘Nigeria […]
Chief Afe Babalola
As legal proceedings over allegations of defamation by prominent human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi, against legal luminary, Afe Babalola, an advocacy group – Justice for Afe Babalola Legacy (JABL) – has expressed confidence in the judiciary’s ability to uphold fairness and deliver justice.
It would be recalled that Dele Farotimi’s recently published book, titled ‘Nigeria Criminal Justice System’, alleged that Aare Afe Babalola had corrupted the judiciary.
Speaking to reporters in Ibadan on Tuesday, the group’s publicity secretary, Rotimi Opeyeoluwa, emphasised the importance of protecting Babalola’s legacy.
He stated that such serious allegations require thorough scrutiny and a balanced response to ensure that the truth prevails.
In his address, Comrade Femi Alufa, the convener of JABL, pointed out that Farotimi’s claims have “cast a shadow over Aare Afe Babalola’s legacy, unfairly tarnishing his reputation and undermining his noble contributions to the legal profession.”
Alufa further remarked that “This unfolding legal battle is not merely about defending an individual’s honour; it represents a broader confrontation with the injustices that can arise within our judicial system. We see it as a fight for fairness and the preservation of a legacy that inspires future generations.
“We firmly believe in the judiciary as the temple of justice, where redress can be sought for Aare Afe Babalola, a towering figure whose contributions should not be diminished by unfounded claims or reckless accusations.
“This is not a case of ‘David versus Goliath’; rather, it is a pivotal moment to reinforce the significance of fairness in our legal profession and society at large. Our battle aims to prevent reputations from being tarnished by careless words and unfounded allegations, ensuring that, ultimately, truth prevails.”