Obi Meets Afe Babalola, Pleads For Farotimi

 

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, visited Aare Afe Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti, to intervene in the ongoing legal troubles of activist lawyer Dele Farotimi.

Farotimi is facing charges of defamation and cybercrime in an Ekiti State Magistrates’ Court and the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti.

The defamation case arises from allegations in his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System”, where he accused Babalola of influencing Supreme Court judges.

While the Magistrates’ Court earlier remanded Farotimi, the Federal High Court granted him bail on Monday, setting conditions at N50 million.

During his meeting with Babalola, Obi sought forgiveness for Farotimi.

According to a source, “After Obi made his case for Farotimi, Babalola asked whether he had seen Farotimi that he had come to appeal on his behalf to know whether he has been remorseful.

“Baba told Obi that everything depended on whether Farotimi was remorseful for his actions or not. Obi pleaded with Babalola to please consider Farotimi and forgive him.”

Another source corroborated this, stating, “From what I saw, Babalola would be willing to forgive Farotimi, except he decided to choose the path of perdition. I think that as it is, he (Farotimi) has to plead for forgiveness before he can be forgiven.

“We told Obi to go and talk to Farotimi, but if he is not ready for apology and says that he has evidence to prove that Baba corrupted Supreme Court judges, let him go and prove that in court.

READ ALSO: Yahaya Bello Vs Dele Farotimi: The Tale Of Two Judicial Systems

“So, consequent upon that, Obi went to the correctional centre to meet with Farotimi. But I cannot say yet what transpired there. But I can tell you that Obi went there to meet him,” the source added.

Following this advice, Obi visited Farotimi at the correctional facility to discuss the matter.

Details of their conversation remain undisclosed.

Social activist Moses Paul shared pictures and videos of Obi’s visits, writing, “Today, Mr. @PeterObi traveled from Lagos to Ekiti State, dedicating the entire day to meaningful engagements. He visited Aare Afe Babalola at his office within the Afe Babalola University, where they had in-depth discussions on critical issues, including the situation of activist and lawyer @DeleFarotimi.

“Following this, Mr. @PeterObi proceeded to the prison facility where @DeleFarotimi is being held. In a private meeting, he expressed solidarity and engaged in a candid exchange aimed at addressing the prevailing challenges.”

Peter Obi has yet to release an official statement regarding the visit.