Human rights advocate Dele Farotimi has come under fire from Bashirat Fawehinmi-Biobaku, the first daughter of the late social critic and rights activist Chief Gani Fawehinmi, for what she called “baseless accusations” against Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
She made this statement during the 21st anniversary of Chief Gani Fawehinmi’s yearly lecture, which was hosted at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State.
In his book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System,” Dele Farotimi, as you may recall, accused the renowned lawyer of abusing his position to influence the Nigerian Supreme Court.
Fawehinmi-Biobaku pointed out that his accusations not only disgraced the elder statesman but also the judiciary’s credibility and the sanctity of the Supreme Court.
She exhorted Nigerians who support justice to fight the inclination to let lies obscure the enormous contributions of people like Aare Afe Babalola.
She said, “I seek the permission of this noble gathering to call to mind what the former Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie aptly said; ‘Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who should have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better, and the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most that has made it possible for evil to triumph.”
“A recent publication, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System by one Mr. Dele Farotimi, exemplifies this troubling trend. The author maligns not only Aare Afe Babalola but also the sanctity of the Supreme Court and the integrity of the judiciary at large.
“The author hinged his outburst on the case of Major Muritala Gbadamosi Eletu & Ors v. H.R.H. Oba Tijani Akinloye & Ors (2013) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1378) 443. While constructive criticism aimed at reform is welcome, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine calls for improvement and baseless accusations that erode public trust.
“As we honor the ideals of Fawehinmism and the legacy of Chief Gani Fawehinmi, let us reaffirm our commitment to defending the judiciary and its stalwarts. Aare Afe Babalola’s story demonstrates that greatness is achieved through unwavering dedication, integrity, and service to humanity.
“We must resist the temptation to allow false narratives to overshadow the monumental contributions of individuals like Aare Afe Babalola.
“Instead, let us celebrate their achievements and draw inspiration from their lives to build a future where justice and truth prevail.
“In conclusion, I urge us all to carry forward the principles of justice, fairness, and service that Aare Afe Babalola and Gani Fawehinmi epitomize. May we continue to honor their legacies by upholding the values they so fiercely defended.”