The founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola SAN, has agreed to withdraw the defamation and cyberbullying cases against activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi. This decision followed a midnight meeting with Yoruba monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

The legal dispute stemmed from allegations in Farotimi's book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, where he accused Babalola of corruption. In response, Babalola filed a petition with the Ekiti State Police, leading to Farotimi’s arrest, arraignment, and trial on charges of criminal defamation and cyberbullying in Ekiti State courts.

During the meeting held at ABUAD, Babalola acknowledged appeals from several prominent figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Bishop Mathew Kukah, and various Yoruba traditional rulers. Despite initially resisting earlier requests to drop the case, Babalola expressed a change of heart after the intervention of the monarchs.

“The monarchs have appealed to me over a criminal charge involving someone who accused me of corruption. There is nothing to gain from his imprisonment or damages,” Babalola said. He emphasized that his happiness lies in giving back to society and protecting his hard-earned reputation.

The Ooni of Ife, speaking on behalf of the Yoruba monarchs, lauded Babalola’s contributions to Yoruba and national development, assuring him that his reputation remained untarnished. “Your name is more than silver and gold. Nobody can tarnish your legacy,” Ogunwusi stated.

He appealed to Babalola to view Farotimi as a son of Yoruba land and let the matter rest. “We came here as traditional rulers to appeal to you. Your name stands unblemished, and we believe this issue can be resolved amicably,” the Ooni said.

In response, Babalola announced his decision to withdraw the case. “I will instruct my lawyers to withdraw the matter. Thank you, Kabiyesis, for your intervention,” he concluded.

The case had drawn public attention since Farotimi’s arrest and arraignment on a 16-count charge, including allegations that he defamed Babalola by accusing him of influencing Supreme Court justices through corrupt practices. Farotimi had been detained in Lagos and transported to Ado Ekiti for trial before his release on bail.

This resolution highlights the enduring influence of traditional institutions in Yoruba land and their role in fostering reconciliation within the community.