Afe Babalola Withdraws Defamation Charges Against Dele Farotimi After Ooni’s Intervention

Afe Babalola Withdraws Defamation Charges Against Dele Farotimi After Ooni’s Intervention

In a recent development, Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), has withdrawn criminal defamation charges against human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi. This decision, according to Pulse,  came after mediation efforts led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, along with other traditional rulers.

Farotimi had previously faced legal action due to allegations made in his book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, where he claimed that Babalola had corrupted the judiciary.

During a press briefing on Sunday, Babalola emphasized his respect for Yoruba traditional institutions as a primary reason for dropping the charges.

He stated, “From time immemorial, the words of an Oba in Yoruba culture are commands.”

He further reflected on his past decisions, noting, “I rejected an oil block, defended the EFCC law, and turned down ministerial offers twice. Why would anyone seek to tarnish what I’ve laboured for? Still, I have nothing to gain from his imprisonment. I am happiest when I give.”

The Ooni of Ife, who played a pivotal role in the reconciliation, expressed gratitude towards Babalola for his magnanimity.

He remarked, “We came together as traditional rulers to appeal to him, and he gave full respect to the Obas by agreeing.”

The Ooni also highlighted Babalola’s significant contributions, stating, “Aare Afe Babalola’s contributions to the Yoruba race, Nigeria, and the world are undeniable.”

Emphasizing the cultural importance of forgiveness, the Ooni added, “Dele Farotimi is your son. As elders, when our children offend us, we reprimand them but also forgive them.”

He lauded Babalola’s legacy, underscoring that his reputation and nation-building efforts remain unblemished.

This resolution underscores the enduring influence of traditional leadership in fostering reconciliation and upholding communal values within the Yoruba culture.

READ ALSO: Justice, Not Dele Farotimi, Incarcerated in Ado-Ekiti

Afe Babalola: The Legal Luminary Shaping Nigeria’s Future

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” Nelson Mandela famously said. But in Nigeria, one man has taken this mantra to heart and transformed it into a legacy that continues to inspire millions—Chief Afe Babalola, SAN. From his humble beginnings in Ado-Ekiti to becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated legal icons, Afe Babalola has redefined what it means to leave an indelible mark on society. And, at 93, his contributions to education, law, and philanthropy remain unmatched.

This article explores the remarkable life of Afe Babalola, his contributions to Nigeria, and how his forward-thinking ideals continue to reshape the nation.

Who Is Afe Babalola?

Born on October 30, 1929, in Ado-Ekiti, Afe Babalola’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. His parents were farmers, yet they instilled in him the value of hard work and resilience—traits that would define his career. Despite not attending secondary school, Babalola’s determination led him to pursue private studies. He eventually earned a law degree from the University of London in 1963.

But what makes his story remarkable is how he rose to become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and one of the most sought-after legal minds in the country, handling high-profile cases and mentoring hundreds of lawyers.

Transforming Education: The Birth of Afe Babalola University

In 2009, Afe Babalola took a bold step. He founded Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), a world-class institution that has set new standards in Nigeria’s educational sector.

Unlike many universities plagued by strikes and subpar infrastructure, ABUAD operates on a different level. It is a self-sustaining institution with cutting-edge facilities, including:

• A fully equipped teaching hospital.
• A world-class agricultural research centre.
• Entrepreneurial hubs to prepare students for the job market.

ABUAD isn’t just a university; it’s a movement to redefine education in Africa. According to Times Higher Education, ABUAD ranks among the top universities in Nigeria, a testament to Babalola’s visionary leadership.

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Why It Matters: Nigeria’s educational sector is in dire need of reform. Strike actions, outdated curricula, and poor funding have left many students frustrated. ABUAD provides a model for what’s possible when education is prioritized.

External Source: Times Higher Education ABUAD Rankings

The Legal Legend

As a legal practitioner, Afe Babalola has set numerous precedents in Nigeria’s judiciary. From corporate law to constitutional matters, his expertise has shaped the nation’s legal landscape. He founded Afe Babalola & Co (Emmanuel Chambers), one of the largest and most reputable law firms in West Africa.

Babalola’s legal achievements include:

• Handling landmark cases that clarified electoral processes in Nigeria.
• Advocating for judicial independence and transparency.
• Representing Nigeria at international legal forums.

His work has earned him several awards, including the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON).

Takeaway: Babalola’s success underscores the importance of mentorship and continuous self-improvement. He has mentored hundreds of lawyers, some of whom now occupy senior positions in government and private practice.

A Philanthropic Giant

Beyond law and education, Afe Babalola is a philanthropist par excellence. Through the Afe Babalola Foundation, he has provided scholarships to thousands of underprivileged students, built schools, and funded healthcare projects across Nigeria.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he donated medical equipment worth millions of naira to support hospitals in Ekiti State. His commitment to community development is unwavering.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite his successes, Babalola has faced criticism, particularly regarding the cost of education at ABUAD. Some argue that the university’s tuition fees make it inaccessible to average Nigerians. However, supporters counter that the quality of education and facilities justify the cost.

Moreover, Babalola has been vocal about issues plaguing Nigeria, including corruption and poor governance. He has often called for a restructuring of the nation to address its developmental challenges.

Key Lessons from Afe Babalola’s Life

1. Never Stop Learning: Despite his modest background, Babalola’s thirst for knowledge propelled him to greatness.
2. Invest in the Future: His focus on education highlights the power of building sustainable legacies.
3. Mentorship Matters: Through his law firm and university, Babalola has nurtured countless talents.

A Glimpse Into the Future

What’s next for Afe Babalola? At 93, he shows no signs of slowing down. He recently proposed a six-month interim government to address Nigeria’s governance issues, sparking debates nationwide. Whether you agree with his views or not, one thing is certain: Afe Babalola remains a force to reckon with.

Final Thoughts

Afe Babalola’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when determination meets vision. His impact on law, education, and philanthropy will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. As Nigeria grapples with challenges in governance, education, and justice, the principles Babalola embodies—excellence, resilience, and integrity—offer a roadmap for change.

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