Renowned human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has refuted claims that he solicited intervention from anyone, including Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, in the ongoing defamation case brought against him by legal luminary Afe Babalola (SAN).
Farotimi is currently standing trial in Ekiti State over alleged defamatory content in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The case stems from a petition filed by Afe Babalola, who took offense to aspects of the book’s narrative.
Recent reports suggested that Peter Obi visited Afe Babalola in what some interpreted as an attempt to negotiate on behalf of Farotimi. However, during a prison visit on Friday, Farotimi firmly dismissed these claims, according to his lawyer, Tope Temokun.
Speaking on the Sunday edition of Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, Temokun recounted his conversation with Farotimi at the correctional facility in Ado-Ekiti.
“The visit of Peter Obi to Aare Afe Babalola and subsequent reports created a lack of clarity about what is happening,” Temokun said. “I asked Mr. Farotimi directly about the matter and his message to all parties involved. He was unequivocal in his response.”
According to Temokun, Farotimi expressed disappointment at suggestions that he had authorized or requested anyone to plead on his behalf. “He said, ‘If anyone believes I sent someone to beg, they do not understand my principles. Even you, Tope, I would be disappointed if you thought this.’”
Farotimi, a vocal advocate for justice and accountability, reportedly remains steadfast in his commitment to the truth, describing it as his only weapon in the struggle.
The case continues to generate public interest as Farotimi’s defense team prepares to challenge the defamation allegations in court.
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