Afenifere Urges Nigerians to Allow Courts Decide Defamation Case Involving Farotimi
The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, Afenifere, has urged Nigerians to respect the judiciary’s role in determining the criminal defamation charges brought against a legal practitioner by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
PulseNets learned that the charges stemmed from a complaint filed at the Ekiti Police Command by Senior Advocate of Nigeria and elder statesman, Chief Afe Babalola. Chief Babalola alleged that the content of the 104-page book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice, authored by Dele Farotimi, defamed him.
According to PulseNets, the petitioner, who resides in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, claimed that the book—which has gained viral attention—could be accessed globally, including in Ekiti, thereby tarnishing his reputation. Meanwhile, Farotimi, a prominent Nigerian activist based in Lagos, was reportedly arrested in Lagos and transported to Ekiti for further legal proceedings.
On Monday, Farotimi was arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti. PulseNets reported that Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun denied his bail application and remanded him in custody until December 10.
In response to the situation, Afenifere, through its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, told PulseNets that “the legal system provides an opportunity for parties in a dispute to prove their cases.” Ajayi emphasized that justice must be fairly dispensed, ensuring that the interests of all parties and the general public are adequately protected.
Ajayi stated in a release that, “the court is in the best position to determine how these interests are protected, and to ensure that the prosecution is conducted in a manner that better serves the interest of justice.”
A cross-section of Nigerians has reportedly organized plans for a massive protest on December 10 across Lagos State, the Federal Capital Territory, and Ekiti State, calling for Farotimi’s immediate release.
Also Read: Controversial Tax Reform Bills: Ohanaeze, Afenifere, Arewa youths state positions
Meanwhile, Afenifere cautioned against actions or remarks that could disrupt public peace, urging the government to uphold the rule of law. “We enjoin all parties to conduct themselves in total submission to and respect for the rule of law,” Ajayi added, reiterating that the court is the constitutionally established venue for resolving disputes and determining whose rights have been breached.
PulseNets reported that Afenifere remains steadfast in its call for justice, fairness, and peace as the case unfolds.
