Legal Drama: Peter Obi Intervenes, visits Afe Babalola Over Activist Under Fire

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has stepped into the ongoing legal drama involving renowned human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi and respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola.

Obi visited Babalola in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Tuesday, in an attempt to mediate and seek a resolution to the case that has sparked national outrage. The case stems from allegations of defamation leveled against Farotimi by Babalola over statements in the former’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.

The legal dispute led to Farotimi’s arrest and remand by the Ekiti State Police Command. However, on Monday, the Ekiti State High Court granted Farotimi bail to the tune of ₦50 million, with a surety of the same amount, pending the continuation of the case in January 2025.
READ MORE: Courage and Controversy: Farotimi vs. Babalola Legal Drama as Bail is Granted

During his visit, Obi reportedly appealed to Babalola to temper his stance on the matter, citing the broader implications for free speech and the rights of activists in Nigeria. Sources said Obi highlighted the importance of finding common ground to resolve the dispute amicably.

The former Anambra State governor also visited the Ekiti prison facility where Farotimi is currently being held. There, he engaged the detained lawyer in a private discussion, expressing solidarity and seeking ways to de-escalate the situation.
READ MORE: Dele Farotimi Will Be Freed Only If He Can Defend His Allegations – Afe Babalola’s Lawyers

Obi’s intervention comes amid mounting criticism of Babalola’s decision to pursue legal action against Farotimi. Civil society organizations and the Nigerian Bar Association have decried the detention as an attack on free expression and have called for greater tolerance of dissenting voices.

Observers see Obi’s involvement as a significant development in the case, with many hoping it could lead to an out-of-court resolution. While the exact details of his discussions with both parties remain undisclosed, Obi’s actions are being interpreted as a bid to calm the situation and promote dialogue.

Farotimi’s case, which has captured public attention, continues to fuel debates on the boundaries of free speech and the responsibility of public figures to handle criticism. With the next court date set for January 2025, Obi’s mediation is viewed as a timely effort to diffuse tensions and possibly influence the direction of the case.