The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has appealed for calm and restraint as the courts deliberate on the criminal defamation charges brought against rights activist, Mr. Dele Farotimi, based on a petition filed by legal luminary Chief Afe Babalola, SAN.
The charges stem from alleged defamatory statements in Farotimi’s 104-page book, *Nigeria and its Criminal Justice*, which Babalola claims misrepresented him. The elder statesman, who resides in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, lodged his complaint with the police, leading to the current legal proceedings against Farotimi, who is based in Lagos.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, emphasized the importance of allowing the judiciary to address the matter. He stated:
“The legal system provides an opportunity for parties in a dispute to prove their cases. Afenifere is of the strong opinion that the interests of both parties and the general public must be protected, and justice dispensed fairly. The court is in the best position to determine how these interests are protected.”
Afenifere urged all involved to refrain from making inflammatory statements or taking actions that could disrupt public peace, stressing the need for respect for the rule of law. The group also called on the government to uphold the constitutional provisions that guarantee fair and unbiased legal proceedings.
Ajayi further noted, “While looking forward to the judiciary to dispense justice without fear or favour, Afenifere appeals to everyone, including the parties directly involved, to resist the temptation of heightening tension.”
The socio-political body reaffirmed its trust in the judicial system to ensure a resolution that serves justice and protects the rights of all parties involved.
