Peter Obi, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, visited Aare Afe Babalola at ABUAD to explore alternative solutions to the defamation suit against Dele Farotimi. Obi later met with Farotimi at the correctional centre, highlighting his commitment to justice and reconciliation.
In a move reflecting his commitment to justice and reconciliation, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, visited Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, at the Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), on Monday evening. The visit, held in the esteemed lawyer’s campus office, aimed at addressing the ongoing defamation case involving Lagos-based human rights activist Dele Farotimi.
Sources close to the legal luminary revealed that Obi’s visit is tied to discussions on finding an alternative resolution to the contentious case, which has garnered widespread public attention. The visit was reportedly facilitated by a former Nigerian president, who is a close associate of Babalola and a supporter of peaceful dialogue.
Dele Farotimi, a prominent member of the Obidient movement, was arraigned last week before a magistrate court in Ado-Ekiti following a petition by Afe Babalola over alleged defamation made in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Judicial System.
In addition to the ongoing case, the Inspector General of Police filed fresh cybercrime-related charges against Farotimi at the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti on Monday. The 12-count charge accuses him of knowingly transmitting false and malicious communication, which could disrupt public order.
Although Farotimi was granted bail to the tune of N50 million with a surety of like sum, his legal team is still working to meet the stringent bail conditions.
During his visit, Obi advocated for an amicable resolution to the legal conflict, citing the need for harmony and mutual understanding between all parties involved. Sources suggest that Obi proposed alternative dispute resolution mechanisms as a pathway to de-escalate tensions.
In addition to his meeting with Babalola, Obi also visited Dele Farotimi at the correctional centre. This gesture underscores his solidarity with the human rights activist and his unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and fairness.
Obi’s efforts highlight his leadership style, which prioritizes dialogue, understanding, and peaceful solutions to conflicts. His actions have drawn commendations from supporters, further cementing his reputation as a leader dedicated to building bridges.
As the defamation case unfolds, Peter Obi’s intervention offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution, potentially setting a precedent for how contentious legal disputes can be addressed in Nigeria’s justice system.
