Netizens on social media have commended the founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), for withdrawing the defamation case he had filed against activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, describing his action as a sign of maturity, wisdom and someone who cherishes peace.
The renowned lawyer had accused Farotimi of defaming him in his book titled: “Nigeria and its criminal justice system.” He was subsequently, arrested and was facing trial for alleged criminal defamation and cyber-bullying in different courts in Ekiti State.
On the social media platform X, netizens view Afe Babalola’s decision to tow the line of reconciliation and dialogue as a sign of his maturity, a peace-seeker and a man possessing a discerning mind.
An X user who identified himself as @Foundationcore, says the legal icon’s act of reconciliation shows his level of maturity in the legal profession, while emphasising the importance of dialogue and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
“Aare Afe Babalola’s (SAN) decision to withdraw the case against activist, Dele Farotimi is a commendable act of reconciliation and legal maturity. It reflects the value of dialogue and peaceful resolution within the legal profession. A win for justice, respect, and mutual understanding”.
Another X user @Meta4 interpreted the withdrawal of the defamation case as an act of wisdom and a strategic choice to avoid collateral damage that could arise from the legal battle.
“I disagree. It demonstrates wisdom and courage. Whether or not Afe Babalola (SAN) withdrawal proves Dele’s claim, the SAN may have considered that the impending collateral damage far outweighs his immediate personal interests.
“The question is what the collateral damages are? Believe it or not, but some matters should be left dead and buried for national security,” he said.
This sentiment was echoed by @steveton788, who said that “I want to sincerely appreciate Chief Afe Babalola, his family and legal team for hearkening to the voice of reason. This is not a sign of weakness but bravery and empathy. To whom he loves, he chastised; with right hand he corrected and with left hand, he welcomed him back.
“No man born of a woman would allow anybody to defame, denigrate and tarnish the reputation that he/she built for decades and counting. He only needed to clear his name but, having seen other predators who would take advantage of the case, opted for settlement.”
In the same vein, @KoyeDG said: “Took the traditional institution to beg Aare to withdraw the case. A show of respect and commendable. So what happens to Dele, will he still continue to stand on business, and continue selling the book?”
Similarly, @Emperorfurbo declared: “Nice decision! I think the innocence or guilt of defamatory and libelous allegations can’t be satisfactorily determined by the court, neither public opinion. Let the accused’s track records and posterity vindicate him. Howbeit, it’s wise listening to the wise counsel of the elders.”
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However, other X users view Afe Babalola’s action as self-preservation.
A critic of the renowned lawyer, @Claudec, asserted that Babalola is seeking a way to escape an uncomfortable situation that may expose institutional corruption within the judiciary.
He said: “The man was looking for an opportunity for a soft landing. We all knew this trial will confirm institutional corruption in the judiciary. The big man knows, the president knows, Wike knows, and the attorney general knows.”
Also, @owendino, argued that Farotimi should pursue legal action against Babalola, asserting that the retired SAN misused the law to intimidate those exposing hidden truths about the Nigerian judicial system.
“Uncle Dele should sue the old man who thinks he’s the law. Baba actually proved everything in the book and now he’s withdrawn the case after using instrument of the law to intimidate a Nigerian who exposed the rot in the Nigerian judiciary,” he wrote
Similarly, an X user @ehiokupa said “the trial could have revealed more information that Baba prefers not to be put out in the public domain. He basically took this decision to protect himself. @DeleFarotimi was ready for the trial, and asked no one to beg on his behalf clearly won here.”
Also, an X user @kulskul4 expressed his disappointment Ekiti born lawyer, adding that “the man harbours a fear of disclosing his concealed secrets in a public setting. He is aware that the lawsuit will illuminate the extent of his corrupt existence.”
