The legal representatives of esteemed Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Afe Babalola, have delineated the requisites for the release of lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi, spotlighting the verification of alleged defamatory statements made by Farotimi against Babalola.
During a press briefing convened in Ado Ekiti, the legal ensemble comprised of Owoseni Ajayi, Olakanmi Falade, and Lawrence Fasanmi elucidated the ongoing legal proceedings. They showed that Farotimi's freedom hinges upon proving the veracity of the suppositions presented in his publication, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System, which purportedly maligns Afe Babalola's reputation.
“Our client, Aare Afe Babalola, petitioned the Nigeria Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the defamatory statements made by Mr. Farotimi,” stated lawyer Owoseni Ajayi. The allegations prompted legal action, aiming to seek truth and justice through lawful avenues.
The press conference aimed to counteract what Ajayi described as “misleading publications” circulating in relation to the case. He implored, “All facts are verifiable. I urge Nigerians to verify and find out what the truth is first before picking a side.”
The case has triggered discussions on free speech and reputational harm. "The law allows free speech, but not one that is calculated to injure the good reputation of another,” the lawyers affirmed, defending Babalola's right to protect his reputation against unsubstantiated claims.
With the anticipation of a court resolution, the focus remains on the substantiation of Farotimi's claims, as the legal confrontation between the two prominent figures unfolds.
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