“I Never Sent Anyone to Afe Babalola; Those Who Went Did So of Their Own Accord” – Dele Farotimi

Human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has categorically denied sending anyone to seek mediation or plead on his behalf with Nigerian legal luminary Afe Babalola, SAN, regarding his ongoing defamation case. Farotimi, currently held at a correctional facility in Ado-Ekiti, stated on Friday that the legal process should take its natural course without external interference.

The controversy stems from Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, which has led to multiple lawsuits. Speaking with fellow human rights lawyer Tope Temokun, who visited him at the correctional facility, Farotimi disowned any efforts to negotiate or plead for his release. He emphasized that he never authorized anyone, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, to approach Babalola on his behalf.

Reports had earlier emerged of Obi meeting with Afe Babalola in Ado-Ekiti to appeal for consideration of Farotimi’s situation. However, Farotimi insisted he neither initiated nor supported such efforts, urging his supporters to allow the matter to proceed naturally.

Temokun described his visit to Farotimi, recounting the activist’s unwavering belief in the truth of his book’s contents. Farotimi expressed confidence in the eventual outcome of the legal battle, stating that if his claims were truthful, he would prevail. He also criticized the timing of the lawsuits filed in multiple jurisdictions, including Ibadan, Abuja, and Rivers State, noting that they were initiated only after his detention.

“Why did they wait until now to file these lawsuits? Why ensure he is kept out of circulation before raising these issues?” Temokun questioned. He highlighted the challenges Farotimi faces in defending himself while detained, describing the situation as an imbalance in the pursuit of justice.

Temokun also reflected on the broader implications of Farotimi’s ordeal, likening it to historical injustices. “A man is held in cuffs and at the gallows, yet some accuse him of blasphemy instead of demanding justice for all parties involved,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Farotimi remains resolute, asserting his readiness to face the legal process and declaring that the truth will ultimately prevail. Temokun concluded with optimism, saying, “This rain rains in torrents, but it shall not rain for long. Soon, things will unravel, and the ground will be dry again.”