Why Afe Babalola may lose defamation case against Farotimi – Ex-Minister warns

Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, has expressed skepticism over the chances of elder statesman and legal luminary, Chief Afe Babalola, winning his defamation case against activist lawyer, Dele Farotimi.

The dispute stems from Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and its Criminal Justice, which Babalola claims defames him.

The elder statesman petitioned the Ekiti State Police Command, leading to Farotimi’s arrest in Lagos and subsequent arraignment before a Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti. Babalola argues that the widely circulated book damages his reputation, particularly in Ekiti State, where he resides.

Speaking on the Mic On Podcast, Dalung criticized Babalola’s approach, suggesting it could tarnish the elder’s legacy. “He has exposed his legacies to public attacks and I don’t see him surviving it,” Dalung stated. He emphasized Farotimi’s strong reputation as a human rights activist, noting public sentiment may not favor Babalola.

According to DAILY POST reports, Dalung said, “Afe Babalola should have not taken this route. He has exposed his legacies to public attacks and I don’t see him surviving it.”

Dalung advised Babalola to resolve the matter amicably, describing the legal battle as a misstep. “He should have called Dele privately and advised him instead of taking this route,” he added. Dalung concluded that the legal action risks pitting Babalola and his family against the wider Nigerian public.